Trail Running in Virginia
Virginia has 33 upcoming trail-running races scheduled for 2026. The calendar runs year-round — busiest in July, September, and October, quietest in January, February, and April. No single city dominates the calendar. King George leads with 5 races, followed by Fredericksburg (4), Arlington (2), and Stephens City (2). The remaining 61% of the calendar is spread across smaller cities.
Trail-running races by month in Virginia
Oct (10) · Jul (6) · Sep (5) · Nov (4) · Jun (2) · Aug (2) · Jan (1) · Feb (1) · Apr (1) · Dec (1)
Showing 24 of 33
Trail Running
The Jackson River Scenic Trail Marathon, Half Marathon, 10k, and 5k
June 13, 2026
Covington, VA
Trail Running
SPEAR TRAIL SERIES
Stephens City, VA
Trail Running
SPEAR TRAIL SERIES
July 11, 2026
Stephens City, VA
Trail Running
SHENANDOAH VALLEY RUNNERS Presents SPEAR TRAIL SERIES
July 25, 2026
Stephens City, VA
Trail Running
Creeper Trail Run to End Cancer - 5K Run/Walk
Damascus, VA
Trail Running
Creeper Trail Run to End Cancer - 5K Run/Walk
July 25, 2026
Damascus, VA
Trail Running
Hungry Mother Trail Run & Hike
Marion, VA
Trail Running
Hungry Mother Trail Run & Hike
July 28, 2026
Marion, VA
Trail Running
2026 Chessie Trail Marathon, Half Marathon, 10K, 5K, & 26.2 Relay
October 1, 2026
Lexington, VA
Trail Running
The Rehab Rover Canicross and Trail Race - 10k, 5K, 1.25 Mile Sprint, Casual Dog Friendy 5K and Virtual 5K
October 3, 2026
Gordonsville, VA
Top Cities for Trail Running in Virginia
Trail Running in Nearby States
Frequently asked questions
What is trail running?▾
Trail running takes place on unpaved surfaces like dirt paths, mountain trails, and forest roads. Distances range from 5K to 100+ miles. Trail running emphasizes scenery, elevation, and technical terrain over pace.
What shoes do I need for trail running?▾
Trail running shoes have aggressive lugs for traction, rock plates for protection, and a more durable outsole than road shoes. Popular brands include Hoka, Salomon, and Altra. Choose shoes based on your local terrain.
How is trail running different from road running?▾
Trail running involves more elevation change, uneven footing, and slower paces than road running. Expect to run 20-40% slower on trails compared to roads. The focus shifts from pace per mile to effort and time on feet.
What are the best trail running destinations in the US?▾
Colorado, California, Oregon, and Utah offer world-class trail running. Iconic areas include the Sierra Nevada, Rocky Mountains, Pacific Northwest forests, and Appalachian trails. Browse trail events by state on RACE.