Virginia Creeper Marathon Reviews

  

By KM about 2014

Review

This is a well run and very small race. 24 miles are run on the Virginia Creeper trail, a soft surface away from traffic. The surrounding landscape is beautiful. Food after the race consisted of bananas and Rice Krispies treats.

Race Tips

The trail has a slight incline in each direction. You will run a very slight uphill for several miles at a time, followed by a very slight downhill for several miles. The incline is almost imperceptible. The race passes the start/finish area several times, which makes it easy to shed clothes in a safe place. You can pick up the clothes later. The surface is called a trail, but there are no roots or rocks to speak of. It is hard packed something, but it is softer than asphalt and wide enough for runners to travel three abreast. Aid stations are not staffed by many people. One aid station I passed was staffed by one person (on my way out) and by nobody at all (on my way back). The day I ran was cold, with temperatures in the 30s and a wind chill in the 20s throughout the race. Typically, the weather in this region is warmer than that in late March.

Logistical Tips (Hotels, Restaurants, Parking, Discounts, etc.)

Race is held approximately two miles from an exit on I-81 where there are several hotels and restaurants. A higher class of restaurant can be located on and near Main Street in Abingdon. Parking is at a school one mile from the start line. Runners are shuttled to the start.