Chessie Trail Marathon
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Chessie Trail Marathon and associated races
The event on November 7, 2026 offers multiple race options on the Chessie Nature Trail in the southern Shenandoah Valley, connecting Lexington and Buena Vista along the Maury River. Distances include:
- Marathon (26.2 miles)
- Half Marathon (13.1 miles)
- 10K
- 5K
- 26.2 Relay with four legs ~8.5m, 4.6m, 8.5m, 4.6m
The trail follows a gentle grade on a smooth gravel-and-grass surface roughly 10 feet wide, running along a former Chesapeake and Ohio rail line and parts of an old canal towpath. Runners pass farmland, limestone cliffs, bamboo groves, river views, and historic stone locks and dams. Wildlife commonly seen includes deer, wild turkeys, river otters, fish, ducks, and occasionally bald eagles. Participants should watch the trail for branches, rocks, springs, livestock presence, and occasional roots.
All four race courses are USATF certified and the event is USATF sanctioned; the Marathon is a Boston qualifier. There is a Virtual Option for Marathon, Half, 10K, and 5K between October 1 and November 7; virtual participants receive mailed amenities but are not eligible for awards. Walkers are permitted in the 5K, 10K, and Half Marathon.
Race amenities include chip timing, custom shirts, finisher medals, aid stations with water and Gatorade, drop-bag service, free parking near the start, and post-race food. Registration is online only; transfers or deferrals are allowed through October 31, 2026, and refunds are not offered. In case of cancellation registrants will be moved to virtual races. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
