Jackson River Scenic Trail Marathon
Marathon, Half Marathon, 10K and 5K
Saturday, June 14, 2025
Start/finish location is at the Intervale Trailhead.
Marathon begins at 7:00 am, half marathon at 7:15am, 10K at 7:30am and 5K at 7:45am
About The Jackson River Scenic Trail Marathon
(A Boston Marathon Qualifier Race)
The Jackson River Scenic Trail follows its namesake river, winding its way between Intervale, just north of Covington, to Smith Bridge Trail Head 14.4 miles north. The trail follows an old railroad bed of the Chesapeake and Ohio Railway (Hot Springs Branch) and passes through small communities, cultivated fields, and small patches of woodland along the way. It's common to see wildlife from the trail (birds, turtles, raccoons, rabbits, groundhogs, and deer).
All races begin and end at the Intervale Trail Head in Covington, Virginia. Field parking is available however we encourage carpooling whenever possible.
The course is on the smooth crushed gravel surface of The Jackson River Scenic Trail. The trail is mostly flat with some light hills. This is an in and out course meaning all races begin and end at the Intervale Trail Head. Each race has well-marked turn around points with volunteers making sure you don't miss them. There will be hydration stations on both the way out as well as on the return back. Port-a-johns are available at the start/finish, and at the trailheads of Petticoat, Smith Bridge and Natural Well. Refreshments will be available at the finish line.
Marathon runners should be able to finish the race in a 14:00 pace. This is a 6:30 full marathon time. Half Marathon runners should be able to finish the race in a 14:00 pace. This is a 3:05 half marathon time.
Age brackets for the races depend on participation.
All finishers will receive a finisher’s medal. The top 3 overall male and female finishers for each race will receive distinctive awards. The top three finishers in each age group will receive certificates of achievement.
Thirty minutes following the completion of each race by the top 3 men and women, the awards ceremony for that race will take place. The location of the awards ceremony is the large tent at the Intervale Trailhead. Please note that we will not mail awards so please plan to remain for the awards ceremony for your race!
Want To Register for the 2025 Jackson River Marathon?
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