Ready to Run the Jackson River Scenic Trail Marathon?

If you are looking for a way to spend a Saturday that’s full of scenic views, exercise, and entertainment, consider running the Jackson River Scenic Trail Marathon.

The race on Saturday, June 23 is a favorite for runners thanks to spectacular views of the mountains and the Jackson River on a mostly shaded course.

Race options include a full marathon, half-marathon, 10K, or 5K. (Runners should be able to finish the full marathon, and half-marathon in a 14:00 pace to make the course cut-off.). The races have staggered start times with the marathon at 7 a.m., the half-marathon at 7:15 a.m., 10K at 7:30 a.m., and 5K at 7:45 a.m. All races begin and end at the Intervale Trailhead.

The Jackson River Scenic Trail follows the Jackson River, stretching 7.2 miles from Intervale to Smith Bridge Trail. The trail follows an old railroad bed of the Chesapeake and Ohio Railway, and passes through small communities, cultivated fields, and small patches of woodland along the way.

Hydration stations will be available throughout the course, as well as at the finish line. All finishers will receive a participation award, and the top three overall male and female finishers will receive distinctive awards. The top three finishers in each age group will receive certificates of achievement.

Make a point to stick around after the race and satisfy those post-race hunger pains at the Covington Cork and Pork BBQ Festival. The festival includes plenty of food, live entertainment, wine tastings, and activities for the kids. The festival starts Friday, June 22 (4:30-10 p.m.) and concludes Saturday, June 23 (11:30 a.m.-9 p.m.) in downtown Covington.

Jackson River Scenic Trail Marathon

• When: Saturday, June 23
• Where: Jackson River Scenic Trail in Covington
• Race Start/Finish: Intervale Trailhead
• Register: Online

Post by Carter Santrock. Santrock is a summer intern for the Roanoke Regional Partnership. He is a major at Jacksonville State University and will be a senior in the fall.