The Jackson River Scenic Trail Marathon course is an out and back on the finely crushed gravel path of an old railroad bed.
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.
How does the Jackson River Scenic Trail Marathon Rank?
The Jackson River Scenic Trail Marathon was the 299th largest marathon in the U.S. last year and was the 354th largest in 2022.
This year 14.6% of finishers qualified for the Boston Marathon and 9.9% of runners qualified for Boston in 2023.
This gives the Jackson River Scenic Trail Marathon the 188th highest percentage of Boston Marathon qualifiers in the U.S. last year and the 86th highest percentage so far in 2024.
Its Course Score of 97.83 ranks it as the 338th fastest marathon course in the U.S. and the 7th fastest course in Virginia.
The typical race time temperature and humidity levels are above the ideal range for optimal marathon performance. This, coupled with the Course Score, gives the Jackson River Scenic Trail Marathon a PR Score of 94.63. This PR Score ranks it as the 403rd fastest marathon in the U.S. and the 7th fastest in Virginia.
Learn more about PR Scores and Course Scores on the FAQ page.
Jackson River Scenic Trail Marathon Elevation Chart
Max Elevation: 1460 feet (445m) Min Elevation: 1289 feet (392m)
Hotel & VRBO Accommodations for the Jackson River Scenic Trail Marathon
View available accomodations around the Jackson River Scenic Trail Marathon Finish Line and Course. Book your Reservation now before the best places are sold out.
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How Fast Can You Go?
If you ran the Jackson River Scenic Trail Marathon in 4:32:00, what would your time in other marathons be?
See how your race times would compare on other marathon courses with our time conversion tool.
Recent Jackson River Scenic Trail Marathon Reviews
PDC's review of 2024 Jackson River Scenic Trail Marathon.
5 /
5 Stars
Review
Well-maintained, wide, and fine-grained gravel trail. Shaded the whole way, with beautiful scenery. Though nestled in the mountains, it's along a river, so quite flat. Any inclines are barely perceptible. Second half is downriver. Temp was 55 degrees at the 7am race start, and 70 degrees at 11am. Humidity not a factor. Spectators sporadic. Very well organized.
Race Tips
Water/Gatorade stations about every 1.5 miles, although race mile-markers sporadic - only at turnaround points for the various races (5K, 10K, half, full).
With a 7am start time (for cooler temps), you have to get up quite early if you plan to eat breakfast 2-3 hours beforehand.
WD's review of 2020 Jackson River Scenic Trail Marathon.
5 /
5 Stars
Review
This was the first road race I was able to find since Covid-19, and I was EXTREMELY impressed with everything about the race! Josh, the race director, was in constant communication with us leading up to the race and provided detailed safety precautions they would be taking for the event. I felt very safe before, during, and after the race. Even with the social distancing and safety precautions, the volunteers were spectacular (as were the aid stations, which served prepackaged beverages and nutrition). The course was BEAUTIFUL along the river, and you could tell everyone was just so happy to be racing again. Biggest thank you for putting this on! I'll definitely be back!
Race Tips
The course is flatter than what is depicted on here, and the gravel was super easy on the body. The only downside... the heat/humidity!!! Luckily, I was coming from TX, so I was used to it, but it was definitely no joke! Make sure to hydrate!!
