The Woodlands Marathon is set to take place on Saturday, February 28, 2026, bringing with it significant road closures and traffic delays throughout the community.

Residents and visitors should plan ahead to navigate the area effectively during the event.

Motorists can expect major delays along key corridors from 6:30 a.m. through early afternoon on race day.

To minimize inconvenience, it's advisable to avoid driving near the start and finish areas unless attending the event.

For those needing to travel across the race route, departing before 6:00 a.m. is recommended to avoid delays.

Several roads will remain open to traffic during the marathon, including westbound Research Forest Drive, Branch Crossing in both directions, Woodlands Parkway east and west, I-45 north and southbound, and southbound Kuykendahl Road.

However, eastbound Lake Woodlands Drive will be closed from 6:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. between Kuykendahl Road and Grogan's Mill Road.

During this period, westbound lanes of Lake Woodlands Drive will operate in a contra-flow configuration, accommodating both eastbound and westbound traffic between Lake Front Circle and Cochran's Crossing.

Drivers should be aware of lane restrictions, intermittent traffic holds, and potential delays along the race route.

Primary impacted areas include Lake Robbins Drive, Grogan's Mill Road, eastbound Research Forest Drive, northbound Kuykendahl Road, Timberloch Place, eastbound Lake Woodlands Drive, and both East and West Panther Creek Drives.

Estimated road reopening times are as follows: Eastbound Research Forest Drive by 8:45 a.m., northbound Kuykendahl Road by 9:20 a.m., and both directions of Gosling Road by 10:15 a.m.

Lake Woodlands Drive westbound, operating in contra-flow, is expected to return to normal by 11:00 a.m., and the Woodlands Parkway westbound on-ramp at Grogan's Mill by 11:30 a.m.

Businesses and neighborhoods along the race route will remain accessible during the event.

However, residents should anticipate temporary access restrictions until runners have passed.

Emergency vehicle access will be maintained at all times.

For detailed maps, alternate routes, and additional information, residents are encouraged to consult the official marathon traffic guide.

Planning ahead and staying informed will help ensure a smooth experience for everyone during this significant community event.