Chessie Trail Marathon
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Run the Chessie Trail - November 7, 2026
Run the Chessie Trail is staged on the seven-mile Chessie Nature Trail at the southern end of the Shenandoah Valley. The trail parallels the Maury River between Lexington, Virginia, and Buena Vista. The surface is smooth gravel and grass with a very gentle grade; the route passes limestone cliffs, small caves, farmland, bamboo stands, and several wildlife habitats where deer, wild turkeys, river otters, fish, ducks, rabbits and occasionally bald eagles can be seen. The trail has twice been voted among the nation’s top three recreational trails.
Distances offered
- Marathon - 26.2 miles on the Chessie Nature Trail.
- Half Marathon - out-and-back loops using the same trail midpoint.
- 10K - course toward Buena Vista and back with a final downhill section.
- 5K - route toward Lexington with a turnaround near horseshoe bends.
- 26.2 Relay - same course as the marathon, four legs approximately 8.5, 4.6, 8.5, and 4.6 miles.
The event is sanctioned by USATF and all four courses are USATF certified; the marathon is a Boston qualifier. A virtual option is available for Marathon, Half, 10K, and 5K with mailed amenities and posted results; virtual entrants are not eligible for awards. On-course support includes chip timing, aid stations with water and Gatorade and refill stations, porta-potties, drop bag storage, custom shirts and medals, and post-race food. Awards include top overall and age-group recognitions and finisher medals for all distances. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
