The Jackson River Scenic Trail Marathon, Half Marathon, 10k, and 5k

The Jackson River Scenic Trail Races offer something for everyone! Beginning and ending at the Intervale Trailhead in Covington, Virginia, the scenic course follows a former Chesapeake and Ohio Railway railroad bed along the beautiful Jackson River.

Featuring a smooth, crushed-gravel surface and mostly flat terrain with gentle rolling hills, the course takes participants through charming rural communities, open fields, and peaceful wooded areas. Along the way, runners can enjoy beautiful river views and may even spot some local wildlife!

With stunning mountain scenery, a welcoming atmosphere, and a course that showcases the natural beauty of Virginia's Alleghany Highlands, the Jackson River Scenic Trail Races offer a memorable experience for runners of all skill levels.

WEATHER

This is a rain or shine event. In the case of severely inclement weather, announcements regarding the race status will be made on the website (www.jacksonrivermarathon.com), on Facebook and via local media.  If there is sufficient advanced notice of a severe weather event, notices will also be sent via the email submitted with your registration.

AWARDS

All finishers receive a commemorative finisher's medal.

Unique awards will be given to the overall top 3 overall male and female finishers of the marathon, half marathon, 10K and 5K races. 

The top three male and female finishers in each age group of each race will receive a certificate of accomplishment. Our age groups are:  12 & under; 13-18; 19-29; 30-39; 40-49; 50-59; 60-69, and 70+.

The awards ceremony will be at the Intervale Trail Head 30 minutes following the completion of each distance (5K, 10K, Half and Full Marathon) by the top 3 males and females for that particular race.  It is understood that this means some participants may still be on the course while others are receiving awards but we want to avoid holding people overly long before handing out awards.  

Please note that awards will NOT be mailed so please attend the ceremony for your race!

*Register by May 12, 2026 if you want a T-shirt!!! After that date there is no guarantee that a shirt will be available for you on the day of the race.

Packet Pick-up will be from noon-8pm at the Alleghany Highlands Chamber of Commerce & Tourism on Friday, June 11th. On-site packet pickup the day of the race will be available starting at 6:30am on Saturday, June 12th.