Heat-Ready Information Ahead of Race Day 2026 Runners, race weekend is almost here! We are looking at some high temperatures this weekend, and your safety is our top priority. Please take a moment to read through this update on how to prepare and what resources we will have on the course to keep you safe. […]
Middle-of-the-Pack Means Something Different at America’s Toughest Road Races Every race has front runners. They’re fast, focused, and incredible to watch. But every runner who toes the start line for the Foot Levelers Blue Ridge Marathon signs up for the same climbs, the same descents, the same struggle. Everyone earns their miles on these mountains. […]
March 28th is Long Run Day in the Roanoke Valley. Three weeks ahead of race day, race organizers will be up on Mill Mountain cheering on runners with a pop-up aid station from 8:30-11am. So, if you’re out scoping out the route and getting in one of your last long runs ahead of the race, […]
For the first time ever, we’re revealing our participant shirts ahead of race weekend. We often keep our swag a secret – it’s been a tradition that made packet pick-up extra exciting. Well, after a quick poll on social media last week, we realized that runners want to see the shirts! And, packet pick-up will […]
Racecation all I ever wanted… Looking for a getaway that pairs a world-class running challenge with a perfect weekend visiting Top Mountain Town, Roanoke, VA? Look no further than the Foot Leveler Blue Ridge Marathon Racecation weekend, April 17-19. Racecation (n.) – a getaway weekend to run a race and experience an exciting destination. This […]
This Virginia marathon just won the Best of the Blue Ridge: Running Event from Blue Ridge Outdoors Magazine. It is an honor we don’t take lightly, especially because running with us is a bold choice. America’s Toughest Road Marathon Isn’t for Everyone–and That’s the Point. If you’re searching for “flat and fast,” we’ll be the […]
The Foot Levelers Blue Ridge Marathon Referral Program People run Blue Ridge for the challenge and the bragging rights, but what most people find out is that the community is what makes it truly special. Whether you’re lining up with a longtime running buddy or convincing a first‑timer to take on the hills, racing together […]
Why the Foot Levelers Blue Ridge Marathon Is One of the World’s Toughest Races (And Why That Makes You Awesome) If you’ve ever crossed the finish line of the Foot Levelers Blue Ridge Marathon, you already know: this isn’t just another race. With over 7,400 feet of elevation change, punishing climbs, quad-busting descents, and relentless […]
Photos from America’s Toughest Running Club At the 16th Running of the Foot Levelers Blue Ridge Marathon, runners and volunteers shared photos with us so we could enjoy the race from their point of view. The submissions did not disappoint. From early morning moments with the doublers to aid station selfies and finish line celebrations, […]
2025 Foot Levelers Blue Ridge Marathon: A Homegrown Event with National Reach and Lasting Local Impact This isn’t just the toughest road marathon in America. It’s one of the most powerful weekends of the year for Roanoke—fueling our economy, energizing our streets, and reminding us why we love this place. Under clear blue skies, […]
The Roanoke Outside Foundation is building Virginia Blue Ridge’s outdoor community through strategic partnerships, infrastructure investment, and signature events.
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