Foot Levelers Blue Ridge Marathon

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Foot Levelers Blue Ridge Marathon Event Details

Registration Dates to Know:

  • Final Price Increase: March 31
  • Shirt Deadline: March 15
  • Bib Custom Name Deadline: March 22
  • Deferral/Transfer to Virtual Deadline: April 5
  • Week-of Pricing +$10 Premium: April 13-17
  • Last Chance to Register (Online and At The Expo): 8PM, April 17
  • Click here to register now

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 Current Map includes the re-route to account for the Wasena Bridge closure.
  • Course Hydration isTailwind Nutrition & Nutrition is GU Energy

Course Description:

The Foot Levelers Blue Ridge Marathon: America’s Toughest Road Race (and Most Beautiful)

This isn’t your average city race — it’s a mountain-town adventure on pavement. Starting and finishing in downtown Roanoke, the course takes you up (and down!) some of the most scenic miles in Virginia’s Blue Ridge.

Summit #1: Roanoke Mountain

For the first miles, soak in the energy of the pack as you begin an epic challenge. The course rolls gently through town toward the Walnut Bridge. When you see it, the real climbing begins — a steady two-mile ascent up Mill Mountain.

Once you reach the “Big Ol’ Bikes” art sculpture stay left, and the crowd will begin to spread out. You will follow the Mill Mountain Parkway and tour a series of wooded, winding hills before crossing the Blue Ridge Parkway. From here, you will tackle the crown jewel of the race: Roanoke Mountain.

This climb gains about 780 feet in just two miles and winds through switchbacks with sweeping overlooks. The reward? A breathtaking summit view — followed by a quad-testing descent that’s as tough as it is stunning.

Summit #2: Mill Mountain

After conquering Roanoke Mountain, you’ll return along the Parkway and climb once more to the Mill Mountain Star, where you’ll overlook the Roanoke Valley — and a view of how much you’ve already accomplished.

From there, it’s a fast two-mile drop down Mill Mountain’s “Old Road” before a 2.5 mile reprieve on the scenic Roanoke River greenway before heading into the final challenge.

Summit # 3: Peakwood

Following the greenway section, you’ll head into the tree-lined streets of South Roanoke, known for its beautiful homes and one last major climb – the infamous Peakwood-  around miles 19 and 20. When you get there, take a moment to celebrate your third peak. The aid station will be ready with champagne toasts.

The descent from Peakwood is why you should train as much on the downhills as the up.

The Final Stretch

Jefferson St. bridge will transport you back into the downtown district and a 2.5 mile tour through Historic Old Southwest and Highland Park before heading to the finish line celebration back at Elmwood Park.

It’s tough. It’s gorgeous. And every step is worth it.

REGISTRATION

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

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.

 

 

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