Carmel Marathon Weekend Preview Run - hosted by Carmel Runners Club

Get ready to fine-tune your marathon preparation at the Carmel Marathon Weekend Preview Run, hosted by the Carmel Runners Club on Saturday, March 28, 2026, in Carmel, IN. This informal, un-timed event offers a fantastic opportunity to experience sections of the renowned Carmel Marathon courses, with distances of 20 miles for the full marathon preview, 11 miles for the half marathon preview, and a shorter 3-mile option likely on the scenic Monon Trail. Starting and finishing at Union Brewing Co., this preview run provides a low-pressure environment to test your training and familiarize yourself with the terrain.

The Carmel Marathon course is celebrated for its fast, flat-to-gently-rolling profile, featuring minimal turns and an elevation change of less than 400 feet for the full marathon, making it a prime spot for personal bests and Boston Marathon qualifiers. You'll navigate through Carmel's charming neighborhoods, the vibrant Arts and Design District, and serene sections of the Monon Trail, offering a picturesque and varied running experience. While these are open courses and roads will not be closed, runners are encouraged to use caution and stick to sidewalks or the Monon Trail. Typical race day conditions for this time of year include comfortable highs around 58°F and lows around 37°F, with a 19% chance of precipitation, creating potentially ideal running weather.

Beyond the miles, the Carmel Marathon Weekend Preview Run fosters a strong sense of community. The event is free for Carmel Runners Club members and just $15 for non-members, including a rewarding post-run social with food and a beverage provided by the club, Union Brewing Co., and the Carmel Marathon. This is more than just a run; it's a chance to connect with fellow runners, gain valuable course insight, and build camaraderie before the main event.