Trail Running in Virginia
Virginia has 33 upcoming trail-running races scheduled for 2026. The calendar runs year-round — busiest in July, September, and October, quietest in January, February, and April. No single city dominates the calendar. King George leads with 5 races, followed by Fredericksburg (4), Marion (2), and Chesterfield (2). The remaining 61% of the calendar is spread across smaller cities.
Trail-running races by month in Virginia
Oct (12) · Sep (6) · Jul (5) · Nov (4) · Aug (2) · Jan (1) · Feb (1) · Apr (1) · Dec (1)
Showing 24 of 33
Trail Running
SHENANDOAH VALLEY RUNNERS Presents SPEAR TRAIL SERIES
July 25, 2026
Stephens City, VA
Trail Running
Creeper Trail Run to End Cancer - 5K Run/Walk
Damascus, VA
Trail Running
Creeper Trail Run to End Cancer - 5K Run/Walk
July 25, 2026
Damascus, VA
Trail Running
Hungry Mother Trail Run & Hike
Marion, VA
Trail Running
Hungry Mother Trail Run & Hike
July 28, 2026
Marion, VA
Trail Running
2026 Chessie Trail Marathon, Half Marathon, 10K, 5K, & 26.2 Relay
October 1, 2026
Lexington, VA
Trail Running
The Rehab Rover Canicross and Trail Race - 10k, 5K, 1.25 Mile Sprint, Casual Dog Friendy 5K and Virtual 5K
October 3, 2026
Gordonsville, VA
Trail Running
Crozet Trails Crew 5K/10k Trail Run + Family Fun Run
October 24, 2026
Crozet, VA
Top Cities for Trail Running in Virginia
Trail Running in Nearby States
Frequently asked questions
What is trail running?▾
Trail running takes place on unpaved surfaces like dirt paths, mountain trails, and forest roads. Distances range from 5K to 100+ miles. Trail running emphasizes scenery, elevation, and technical terrain over pace.
What shoes do I need for trail running?▾
Trail running shoes have aggressive lugs for traction, rock plates for protection, and a more durable outsole than road shoes. Popular brands include Hoka, Salomon, and Altra. Choose shoes based on your local terrain.
How is trail running different from road running?▾
Trail running involves more elevation change, uneven footing, and slower paces than road running. Expect to run 20-40% slower on trails compared to roads. The focus shifts from pace per mile to effort and time on feet.
What are the best trail running destinations in the US?▾
Colorado, California, Oregon, and Utah offer world-class trail running. Iconic areas include the Sierra Nevada, Rocky Mountains, Pacific Northwest forests, and Appalachian trails. Browse trail events by state on RACE.