The Jackson River Scenic Trail Marathon, Half Marathon, 10k, and 5k

🌄 Race Overview

This fun event has something for everyone! The USATF certified course begins and ends at the Intervale Trail Head of The Jackson River Scenic Trail in Covington, Virginia. The trail follows an old railroad bed of the Chesapeake and Ohio Railway.

• Surface: smooth crushed gravel
• Terrain: mostly flat with some light hills
• Scenery: follows the Jackson River, winding through communities and fields
• Wildlife: not uncommon to see along the trail

☔ Weather

This is a rain or shine event. In the case of severely inclement weather, announcements regarding the race status will be made on the website, on Facebook and via local media. If there is sufficient advanced notice of a severe weather event, notices will also be sent via the email submitted with your registration.

🏆 Awards

• Finishers: all finishers receive a commemorative finisher's medal
• Unique awards: given to the overall top 3 male and female finishers of the marathon, half marathon, 10K, and 5K races
• Age group awards: top three finishers in each age group will receive a certificate of accomplishment
• Awards ceremony: at the Intervale Trail Head 30 minutes after each race completion

📩 Important Note on Awards

Please note that awards will NOT be mailed so please attend the ceremony for your race!

🍴 At the Intervale Finish Line

Local businesses will be providing refreshments, food, and experiences on the Jackson River & Trail from 6am-12noon at the finish line. Hang out after your finish and enjoy:

• Activities: tubing brought to you by Alleghany Outdoors (15% discount for runners)
• Food options: food trucks available
• Services: shoe size measurements by Fleet Feet
• Beverages: alcohol and beverages sold by the Alleghany Highlands Trails Alliance

🛑 Registration Deadline

Register by May 13, 2026 if you want a T-shirt! After that date, there is no guarantee that a shirt will be available for you on the day of the race.

📦 Packet Pick-up

Packet Pick-up will be from noon-8pm at the Alleghany Highlands Chamber of Commerce & Tourism on Friday, June 12th. On-site packet pickup the day of the race will be available starting at 6:30am on Saturday, June 13th.

🗓 Event Details

The race will take place on June 13, 2026, at the Intervale Trail Head, The Jackson River Scenic Trail, Covington, VA. For more information, visit the race page.