2026 Bar Harbor Bank & Trust Half Marathon and Fall 5K

Lace up for an unforgettable journey through one of America's most stunning national parks at the 2026 Bar Harbor Bank & Trust Half Marathon and Fall 5K. Scheduled for September 12, 2026, in picturesque Bar Harbor, Maine, this event offers a challenging yet incredibly scenic experience. Runners can choose between the 13.1-mile Half Marathon or the shorter 5K distance, both set to unfold amidst the vibrant hues of early autumn foliage. Typical race day conditions in mid-September offer ideal running weather, with highs around 71F and lows near 50F, alongside a low 13% chance of precipitation.

The Half Marathon boasts a unique and challenging loop course, featuring approximately nine miles on Acadia National Park's historic carriage roads—a car-free, hard-packed trail system built by John D. Rockefeller Jr.. Starting on Main Street in downtown Bar Harbor, the route quickly leads into the dense forest canopy of Acadia, guiding participants across old granite bridges and offering breathtaking views around Witch Hole Pond and Paradise Hill. Be prepared for a significant 180-foot climb between miles 7 and 8, adding to the course's reputation as hilly and demanding. Finishers are awarded medals, and half marathon participants receive t-shirts.

What truly sets this race apart is its distinction as one of the only half marathons to run entirely within a U.S. National Park, a feature that earns it a spot among "The Most Scenic Half Marathons in the U.S.". Aid stations providing water are strategically placed at six locations along the course and at the finish line, and participants are encouraged to bring their own reusable cups as the race moves towards a "cupless" event. The race also serves as the largest annual fundraiser for the Mount Desert Island YMCA, with proceeds supporting vital community programs. With the Half Marathon limited to just 400 participants to preserve the park experience, early registration is highly recommended for a chance to run one of Maine's most cherished races.