Mountain Fork Half Marathon
Always double-check with the organizer's website! This page may contain affiliate links.
Mountain Fork Half Marathon - Norton, Virginia
The Mountain Fork Half Marathon is a 13.6-mile loop that starts and finishes at the High Knob Observation Tower on the Jefferson National Forest's Clinch Ranger District in Wise County. The start area sits near 4,200 feet elevation. The course travels primarily on Forest Service and paved roads through the Mountain Fork watershed and returns to the High Knob parking area. Total elevation gain is about 1,600 feet.
The route uses a combination of paved approach roads, Forest Road 238, State Route 619, Forest Road 704, and State Route 706 before returning to the tower approach. The course is an open road route; vehicles may be present and some sections include sharp or blind curves. Portable toilets will be provided at the start and finish areas. Aid stations are located at about the 2.3-, 5-, 7.8-, and 11.5-mile marks. The event uses hand timing and finishers receive medals; awards are given to overall top finishers, masters, and age-group places.
Proceeds support trail development and maintenance on the Flag Rock Recreation Area trails and on High Knob. Registration includes a guaranteed race shirt for runners who register by September 4, 2026. Strollers are not permitted on the course. There is a course time limit. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
