Conquer the Cove 25k and Marathon Trail Races

Race Details

Please see the race webpage for all of the race details - https://mountainjunkies.net/conquer-the-cove-25k-marathon/

Event Overview

• Location: Sherwood Archers, Roanoke, VA
• Date: 2026-05-31
• Race Types: 25k and Marathon
• Scenery: Mountain laurel and rhododendrons in bloom

Competitive Edge

• Local vs. Outsider: Compete against Roanoke locals
• Trail Coverage: See 80% of the park's trails
• Event Series: This is the anchor event for the Roanoke Non Ultra Trail Series (RNUTS)
• Fitness Test: Perfect to assess your running capabilities

Race Environment

• Park Size: Carvins Cove Natural Reserve spans 12,700 acres
• Trail Features: Over 40 miles of roads and trails
• New Trails: Additional trails planned for development each year
• Recreation: A major source of outdoor activities

Course Challenges

• Climbing: Significant elevation gain, approximately 3500ft in the marathon
• Post Mile 18: 1000ft elevation gain following mile 18
• Downhill Reward: 2.35 miles of downhill following the climb
• Final Stretch: A relatively easy 2-mile run to the finish