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Blue Ridge Marathon

Blue Ridge Marathon

Roanoke, VA
Apr 12, 2025
Marathon
Blue Ridge Marathon

Sub-events Details

Marathon

Marathon
Apr 12, 2025 (Sat)
7:35 AM
Run/Walk
in person
USATF

Event details

Foot Levelers Blue Ridge Marathon Event Details

  • America’s Toughest Road Marathon, the Blue Ridge Marathon, has the most elevation change of any road race in the United States.
  • LOCATION: Course Start at Elmwood Park in downtown Roanoke, VA
  • START TIME: 7:35 AM
  • Packet Pick-Up: 3:00-8:00 PM, Friday, April 11 at Elmwood Park.

Registration Dates to Know:

  • Final Price Increase: February 27
  • Shirt Deadline: March 7
  • Bib Custom Name Deadline: March 14
  • Deferral/Transfer to Virtual Deadline: March 31
  • Week-of Pricing +$10 Premium: April 6-April 11
  • Last Chance to Register (Online and At The Expo): 8PM, April 11

MARATHON COURSE DESCRIPTION & MAPS:

  • Full Marathon is limited to 750 runners
  • Total Elevation Gain/Loss=7,430 ft
  • 7.5 hour cut-off time AND a 6 hour cut-off time at mile 22.
  • Corral Start System – Look for pace time markers and find the section that fits your goal. Please be respectful of other runners by placing yourself in the appropriate section. Faster runners congregating closest to the front.
  • If runners do not maintain a 16:20 min/mile pace then course marshals reserve the right to pull you from the course for your safety.
  • The 2025 Map includes the re-route to account for the Wasena Bridge closure.
  • Course Hydration provided by Tailwind Nutrition & Nutrition provided by GU Energy

Course Description:

The Blue Ridge Marathon course is not for the faint of heart. The course begins and ends in downtown Roanoke. In between, runners will enter the Blue Ridge Parkway, where they will make three significant climbs and descents.

The course begins easily with one mile of rolling hills, before taking its first turn upward as runners begin the 2-mile climb up Mill Mountain. At the top of the day’s initial climb, the race enters the Blue Ridge Parkway, where there are several lengthy and challenging hills over the next two-plus miles. Then runners will encounter the most beautiful but challenging portion of the course – the climb up Roanoke Mountain.

Roanoke Mountain ascends approximately 780 feet in two miles with multiple switchbacks. Runners will see magnificent views of the region’s mountains and valleys as they pass the numerous overlooks, and will be rewarded with the best view at the top. The steep decent on the back of Roanoke Mountain is equally beautiful and difficult as the gradient forces runners to keep their speed in check.

After 4 miles of climbing and descending, the course returns to the Blue Ridge Parkway where runners will re-trace their steps toward Mill Mountain. Participants will then ascend Mill Mountain (the part not covered on the first pass) to the famous Mill Mountain Star, overlooking the beautiful Roanoke Valley and — much of the course still to be run!

From the Star, runners will encounter another major 2-mile decent down Prospect Avenue – also known as the “old road” to Mill Mountain. Back on the valley floor the final 10 miles is rolling with several challenging hills. Don’t let mile 18 and 24 sneak up on you!

The Valley section of the course briefly skirts the Roanoke River before turning into the historic and scenic area known as South Roanoke, famous for its beautiful homes. Be aware of a long climb on Avenham and Peakwood Avenues as you turn into the neighborhood. You will crest the hill right at 20 miles.

The terrain flattens out for the next 3 miles as you make your way through Old Southwest before heading downtown to the finish line at Elmwood Park.

AWARDS

  • All Marathon and Half Marathon finishers will receive a commemorative finisher’s medal. Age group awards will be presented for both events to the top 3 male & female finishers in the age groups.
  • In addition, top 3 overall receive these awards and prizes.

The Foot Levelers Blue Ridge Marathon is not just a race – it’s an adventure that tests endurance, ignites the spirit, and rewards runners with breathtaking views and unparalleled satisfaction. Known as America’s Toughest Road Marathon, this race takes place in Roanoke, Virginia, and lives up to its reputation with challenging elevation gains, picturesque landscapes, and an electric atmosphere. Whether you choose the full marathon, half marathon, 10K, or even the double marathon, the Blue Ridge experience is one for the bucket list.

Embrace the Challenge: A Course Like No Other The course is the heart of the Blue Ridge Marathon experience, taking runners through the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains with stunning overlooks and serene greenways. The race begins in downtown Roanoke, where the energy is palpable as runners prepare to tackle the famous climbs. Early on, participants ascend Mill Mountain, greeted by the iconic Roanoke Star and sweeping views of the valley below. The marathon continues up Roanoke Mountain and Peakwood Drive, each summit offering panoramic vistas that make every grueling step worthwhile.

For those taking on the half marathon or 10K, the course still promises plenty of elevation and excitement. The half marathon boasts a significant climb to Mill Mountain, while the 10K offers a fast yet challenging route through the heart of the city and surrounding trails.

Exceptional Organization and Roanoke’s Warm Welcome The Blue Ridge Marathon is a race that thrives on community spirit. From the dedicated volunteers to the cheerful spectators, Roanoke comes alive to support runners. Aid stations are frequent and well-stocked, offering everything from hydration to snacks and, in some cases, Jell-O shots and mimosas. The post-race celebration is as memorable as the course itself, with live music, local food vendors, and a festive downtown atmosphere that keeps the energy high long after the race is over.

Race organizers prioritize runner experience, ensuring smooth packet pickup, seamless course markings, and plenty of pre-race communication. From expo day to the final finish line, the event is polished, professional, and filled with heart.

Pros: Why Runners Keep Coming Back

  • Stunning Scenery: The course winds through some of the most beautiful landscapes in Virginia, with unforgettable views at every summit. Runners frequently highlight the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains as a key motivator.
  • Community and Volunteer Support: From energetic spectators to kind-hearted volunteers, the Roanoke community shows up in full force to cheer and assist.
  • Unique Experience: Climbing three mountains and standing beneath the Roanoke Star gives participants an unforgettable story to tell.
  • Challenging but Rewarding: The race’s difficulty makes the finisher medal feel like an ultimate prize, and each participant walks away with a deep sense of accomplishment.
  • Great Swag: Runners receive high-quality race swag, including comfortable race shirts, unique finisher medals, and creative age group awards that celebrate local craftsmanship.

Things to Consider: Prepare and Conquer

  • Elevation is Real: This course is not for the faint of heart. With over 7,400 feet of elevation change, the marathon will push even experienced runners. But with proper hill training, the challenge becomes an exciting goal rather than an obstacle.
  • Variable Weather: April in the Blue Ridge Mountains can bring anything from cool breezes to warmer temperatures. Dress in layers and prepare for changing conditions.
  • Multiple Climbs: The course features multiple long climbs followed by steep descents. While quads may burn, the view from the top and the thrilling downhill segments keep the race dynamic and engaging.

 

America’s Toughest Road Marathon has the most elevation change of any road race in the United States.

LOCATION: Course Start at Elmwood Park in downtown Roanoke, VA

START TIME: 7:35 AM

Corral Start System– Look for pace time markers and find the section that fits your goal. Please be respectful of other runners by placing yourself in the appropriate section. Faster runners congregating closest to the front.

REGISTRATION POLICIES

Epic Challenge, Beautiful Views, A Music Festival, Slow-K Recovery Fun Run, and More!

MARATHON COURSE DESCRIPTION & MAPS:

The Blue Ridge Marathon course is not for the faint of heart. The course begins and ends in downtown Roanoke. In between, runners will enter the Blue Ridge Parkway, where they will make three significant climbs and descents.

The course begins easily with one mile of rolling hills, before taking its first turn upward as runners begin the 2-mile climb up Mill Mountain. At the top of the day’s initial climb, the race enters the Blue Ridge Parkway, where there are several lengthy and challenging hills over the next two-plus miles. Then runners will encounter the most beautiful but challenging portion of the course – the climb up Roanoke Mountain.

Roanoke Mountain ascends approximately 780 feet in two miles with multiple switchbacks. Runners will see magnificent views of the region’s mountains and valleys as they pass the numerous overlooks, and will be rewarded with the best view at the top. The steep decent on the back of Roanoke Mountain is equally beautiful and difficult as the gradient forces runners to keep their speed in check.

After 4 miles of climbing and descending, the course returns to the Blue Ridge Parkway where runners will re-trace their steps toward Mill Mountain. Participants will then ascend Mill Mountain (the part not covered on the first pass) to the famous Mill Mountain Star, overlooking the beautiful Roanoke Valley and — much of the course still to be run!

From the Star, runners will encounter another major 2-mile decent down Prospect Avenue – also known as the “old road” to Mill Mountain. Back on the valley floor the final 10 miles is rolling with several challenging hills. Don’t let mile 18 and 24 sneak up on you!

The Valley section of the course briefly skirts the Roanoke River before turning into the historic and scenic area known as South Roanoke, famous for its beautiful homes. Be aware of a long climb on Avenham and Peakwood Avenues as you turn into the neighborhood. You will crest the hill right at 20 miles.

The terrain flattens out for the next 3 miles as you make your way through Old Southwest, along the Roanoke River Greenway, and through Wasena before heading downtown to the finish line at Elmwood Park.

Epic Challenge, Beautiful Views, A Music Festival, Slow-K Recovery Fun Run, and More!

REGISTRATION

REGISTRATION POLICIES– Please be sure to review all of our registration policies prior to paying online.

AWARDS

  • All Marathon and Half Marathon finishers will receive a commemorative finisher’s medal. Age group awards will be presented for both events to the top 3 male & female finishers in the age groups.
  • In addition, top 3 overall receive these awards and prizes.

COURSE CHANGE NOTICE

IMPORTANT NOTICE (As of March 26, 2019)–Due to circumstances beyond our control, there has been a slight course modification on the Roanoke Mountain section of the full marathon course. There was a landslide earlier this year, and for the foreseeable future runners will not be able to do the full loop.Instead, the course will be an “out and back” up the front side of Roanoke Mountain, around the overlook loop at the top and then back down. Because this is a shorter distance that the original loop, there will also be a second ~.4 mile “out and back” that takes you into the Roanoke Mountain Picnic Area before heading back to Mill Mountain. The maps above have been updated with the revised course.

We are working diligently to ensure that your race day remains seamless and easy. We will also continue working with the National Parks Service to find a long-term solution to this issue. Thank you for your understanding.

The Foot Levelers Blue Ridge Marathon Series has earned its title as “America’s Toughest Road Marathon” by challenging runners with over 7,430 ft. in elevation change, more than any other road marathon in the U.S.  This race is the ONLY marathon that runs along the famously scenic Blue Ridge Parkway, and proceeds from this non-profit event benefit the parkway and a dozen local charities every year.  The full, half, relay and 10k all prove equally challenging yet rewarding on this mountainous course, and all runners are rewarded with a unique finishers’ medals, shirts and local craft beer at the festival-like finish in downtown Roanoke. For those who need even more than just extreme elevation change can run the course twice with the official Blue Ridge Double (sells out annually).

This race would not be possible without the support of our title sponsor, Foot Levelers.

This event is owned and operated by the Roanoke Outside Foundation whose mission to make outdoor activity and environmental stewardship a core component of our community’s lifestyle by promoting a “conservation through recreation” philosophy.

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