New River Marathon

MAY
15-16
2026
Run along the banks of an American Heritage River in North Carolina's Blue Ridge Mountains. This event offers USATF certified courses through scenic valleys featuring local farms and handcrafted wooden finisher medals.
15-16 May 2026
26 miles 13 miles 5 kilometers

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New River Marathon, Half Marathon & 5K

The New River Marathon takes place in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina, specifically in the town of Todd. The event features multiple race distances that utilize the scenic landscape of the South Fork New River valley. The South Fork New River is recognized as one of only 14 American Heritage Rivers in the United States.

Available distances include:

  • 26.2 Miles (Marathon)
  • 13.1 Miles (Half Marathon)
  • 5K
  • Marathon / 5K Combo
  • Half Marathon / 5K Combo

The marathon course is USATF certified and includes 20.8 miles that run directly along the banks of the New River. Participants pass through a variety of pastoral settings, including Christmas tree farms, horse farms, and cattle farms. The 5K race is held on Friday evening, while the Marathon and Half Marathon take place on Saturday morning.

Finishers receive medallions locally crafted from Blue Ridge Mountain wood. Awards are also produced locally. Post-race refreshments are provided by the Stick Boy Bread Co. Kitchen. The event base is located at 7181 Railroad Grade Rd in Todd, North Carolina. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.

26 mi
New River Marathon
13 mi
New River Half Marathon
5 km
New River 5k