Tidewater Strider Dismal Swamp Marathon
Race snapshot
Race Day
41–55°F · Feels cool
Total elevation gain
Relatively flat course · Net elevation change +0 ft
Crowd Rating
Quiet course sections
The Lowdown
The 7th annual Tidewater Strider Dismal Swamp Marathon runs on the Dismal Swamp Canal Trail in Chesapeake, Virginia, on December 6, 2026. The course is USATF certified and out and back: runners cover 6.55 miles up the trail and 6.55 back, twice. The race bills it as the fastest course in Virginia and a big Boston qualifying opportunity. The marathon starts at 7:30 AM and the finish line closes at 4 PM. A 50K, a half marathon and a 50K relay run the same day. Finishers get a medal and a long-sleeve shirt, and anyone who qualifies for Boston gets a BQ shirt. The marathon is full, and registration offers a waiting list.
Questions about the Tidewater Strider Dismal Swamp Marathon 2026
When is the Tidewater Strider Dismal Swamp Marathon 2026?
Sunday, December 6, 2026.
Where is the Tidewater Strider Dismal Swamp Marathon?
Chesapeake, Virginia, United States.
What time does the Tidewater Strider Dismal Swamp Marathon start?
The race starts at 7:30 AM, local time.
What is the Tidewater Strider Dismal Swamp Marathon time limit?
Finish line closes at 4 PM.
How do I enter the Tidewater Strider Dismal Swamp Marathon 2026?
The race is sold out. Dec 5, 2026: Registration closes. Ways in: Registration is online through RunSignup and stays open until race day at the start, if spots remain; The marathon is full; a waiting list is open.
How much does the Tidewater Strider Dismal Swamp Marathon 2026 cost?
Marathon: $95.
When and where is packet pickup for the Tidewater Strider Dismal Swamp Marathon?
Dec 5, 2026: Running etc VB, 1 to 3 pm; race-day pickup at the start line from 6:15 am.
What is the Tidewater Strider Dismal Swamp Marathon elevation gain?
10 m (33 ft) of total elevation gain. Net elevation change: +0 m (0 ft). Relatively flat course.
What is the weather like at the Tidewater Strider Dismal Swamp Marathon?
Race-day temperatures are usually 5–13 °C (41–55 °F). Feels cool.
Where are the Tidewater Strider Dismal Swamp Marathon results?
The official 2025 results are on the organizer's site. Official results
Is the Tidewater Strider Dismal Swamp Marathon a Boston qualifier?
Yes. This race is a certified Boston Marathon qualifying event.
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