James River Trail Runs
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James River Trail Runs
James River Trail Runs takes place in April at James River State Park. The race uses a roughly 10 mile loop; runners are credited for completed loops so finishing a loop counts as a finisher for a lesser distance than originally entered. There is a 16-hour overall time limit.
The loop mixes mostly singletrack and some double track. The first half has short steep climbs (about 1/4-1/2 mile) with technical roots and rocks but remains runnable. The second half follows the James River on flat, wide trails. Each loop has about 1,025 feet of elevation gain. The course begins at Shelter 1 near the canoe livery and group campground and follows trails including Running Creek, Ridgeline Loop, Cabell Trail, and River Trail.
Distances and entry options
- 10 Mile (one loop)
- 50K (approximately 3 loops)
- 50 Mile (approximately 5 loops)
- Relay options for 50K and 50 Mile
Aid and support include two aid stations: a primary start/finish station with hot food and typical ultra provisions, and a smaller station on Cabell Trail around mile 6. Drop bags are not needed; runners may keep a bag at the start/finish. Pacers are allowed under specified rules for 50K and 50 Mile entries; pacers are not permitted for the 10 Mile. Dogs and strollers are not permitted. The 50K is part of the Virginia State Parks Adventure Series. Early registrants receive a trucker hat and finishers receive a ceramic mug; top three awards are given by gender per distance except hiker categories. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
