Jackson River Scenic Trail Marathon
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The Jackson River Scenic Trail Marathon, Half Marathon, 10K and 5K
The event offers four distances that start and finish at the Intervale Trail Head on the Jackson River Scenic Trail in Covington, Virginia.
- Full Marathon
- Half Marathon
- 10K
- 5K
The course is USATF certified and follows an old Chesapeake and Ohio Railway railroad bed. The surface is smooth crushed gravel and the route is mostly flat with some light hills. The trail runs along the Jackson River through small communities, cultivated fields, and small patches of woodland, and wildlife sightings are possible.
The event is rain or shine; in cases of severely inclement weather the organizer will announce any change to race status through official channels. Packet pick-up is available the day before at the Alleghany Highlands Chamber of Commerce & Tourism and on-site the morning of the race. Runners who register by May 13, 2026 are more likely to receive a T-shirt on race day.
All finishers receive a commemorative finisher's medal. Unique awards will be given to the top three overall male and female finishers in each race. The top three males and females in each age group receive a certificate. Age groups are 12 & under; 13-18; 19-29; 30-39; 40-49; 50-59; 60-69; and 70+. Awards will not be mailed; ceremonies take place at the Intervale Trail Head shortly after each distance is completed. Local vendors will provide refreshments, food, tubing by Alleghany Outdoors, shoe measurements by Fleet Feet, and beverages from the Alleghany Highlands Trails Alliance. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
