Race the Shore at the St. Michaels Running Festival, a flat-and-fast celebration that winds through historic streets, waterfront views, and small-town cheers.
With multiple distances on well-marked courses, this runner-friendly festival welcomes first-timers and PR-chasers alike. Expect chip timing, staffed aid stations, and a lively finish village steps from shops, cafés, and the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum. Final course maps, packet pickup times, and pricing are posted on the event site each year.
What to Expect
A community-powered race day with smooth logistics, scenic routes, and plenty of Eastern Shore hospitality. Volunteers line the course, music sets the pace, and the finish area doubles as a mini-festival with recovery snacks and photo spots.
Course & Distances
Choose from options that typically include a half marathon, 10K, and 5K so everyone finds the right fit. Courses emphasize flat terrain with gentle turns, clear mile markers, and visible course marshals. Strollers and walkers may be permitted for select distances – check current guidelines.
Runner Perks & Amenities
Chip timing and live/posted results, on-course hydration and basic first aid, portable restrooms at start/finish and key miles, and a festive finish experience. Most years feature participant shirts, finisher medals, and age-group awards.
Course Highlights
Historic downtown streets, harbor and creek vistas, shaded neighborhood stretches, and classic Eastern Shore scenery—farms, marshes, and big skies. Look for cheering zones near the start/finish and popular viewing intersections.
Packet Pickup & Pre-Race
Advance pickup is offered prior to race day, with race-morning pickup available for most distances. Bring photo ID and your registration confirmation. Arrive early for parking, warm-up, and a brief pre-race announcements window covering safety and last-minute updates.
Registration & Schedule
Tiered pricing rewards early sign-ups. Wave starts, time limits, and field caps vary by distance; details are posted on the event website. Popular races often sell out due to limited course capacity – register early to secure your spot.
Make a Weekend of It
Turn your race into a Shore getaway. Explore St. Michaels’ walkable downtown, visit the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum, browse galleries and boutiques, and refuel at seafood and coffee spots. Nearby Oxford and Easton make great side trips.
Accessibility & Visitor Tips
Helmets required for any stroller participants; follow current stroller policy. Consider sunscreen, a hat, and a spare layer for coastal breezes. Front/rear lights are encouraged for early starts. If you have accessibility needs, contact organizers in advance for parking and viewing accommodations.
Location: St. Michaels, MD
Website: runstm.com/
