Mountain Fork Half Marathon
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The Event
The Mountain Fork Half Marathon is a 13.6-mile race held in Wise County. The seventh edition will take place on September 20, 2026. All race proceeds benefit trail development and maintenance for the Flag Rock Area Trails system in the City of Norton's Flag Rock Recreation Area and on High Knob.
Course and Location
The race starts and finishes at the High Knob Observation Tower on the Jefferson National Forest's Clinch Ranger District. The starting elevation is approximately 4,200 feet. The route is a loop primarily on Forest Service roads through the Mountain Fork watershed. The course is described as open, with vehicle traffic present, and includes sharp and blind curves. The total elevation gain is 1,600 feet.
Race Day Details
Packet pick-up is from 7:30-8:30 a.m. at the City of Norton's Reservoir Trailhead off State Route 619. A shuttle bus service will transport runners to the start line between 8:30-8:45 a.m. Portable toilets will be available at the start/finish area. The race begins at 9 a.m., and runners must finish by 12:30 p.m.
Aid stations are planned for approximately the 2.3-, 5-, 7.8-, and 11.5-mile marks. The event will be hand-timed.
Awards and Amenities
Awards are presented to the top three overall men and women, the top male and female masters winners (age 40 and up), and the top three in five-year age groups. All finishers receive a medal. Race packets include a T-shirt and bib. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
