Running in Virginia
Virginia offers exceptional running from the Blue Ridge Mountains to the Chesapeake Bay coast. The state's rich history, stunning trail networks, and proximity to Washington D.C. create a deep and active running community with some of the best trail racing on the East Coast.
Climate
Four mild seasons
Terrain
The Blue Ridge Mountains and Shenandoah Valley offer world-class trail running
Top Race
Richmond Marathon
Climate and Weather
Four mild seasons. Northern Virginia shares D.C.'s humid summers and moderate winters. The mountains are cooler and snowier. The coast is mild. Year-round running is very accessible across most of the state.
Terrain and Landscape
The Blue Ridge Mountains and Shenandoah Valley offer world-class trail running. The Piedmont is rolling hills with wine country roads. The Tidewater area is flat with coastal paths. Northern Virginia has excellent paved trail networks connected to the D.C. metro system.
Top Running Routes
W&OD Trail
45 milesNorthern Virginia
A paved rail trail from Arlington to Purcellville through Virginia's DC suburbs and wine country.
James River Trail System
5-15 milesRichmond
A unique urban trail system with rocks, rapids, and even a former canal towpath through downtown Richmond.
Blue Ridge Parkway Trails
VariesVarious
Access points along the parkway to trails in the Blue Ridge Mountains and Shenandoah National Park.
Mount Vernon Trail
18 milesArlington to Mount Vernon
A paved waterfront trail along the Potomac River with views of D.C. monuments and George Washington's estate.
Virginia Creeper Trail
34 milesAbingdon to Whitetop
A scenic rail trail through the mountains of southwest Virginia, starting at the state's second-highest point.
Popular Races
Richmond Marathon
Richmond
Marine Corps Marathon
Arlington
Blue Ridge Marathon
Roanoke
Running Culture
Virginia has one of the most active running communities in the country, fueled by the D.C. metro area's fitness culture. The Marine Corps Marathon (starting in Arlington) is one of the largest marathons in the US. Richmond and Roanoke have strong local running scenes. Trail running in the Blue Ridge is exceptional.
Safety Tips
Ticks are prevalent in wooded areas. Lyme disease is a significant concern in Virginia.
Summer humidity in the D.C. metro area and Tidewater region can be intense.
Mountain trails in Shenandoah can be rocky and technical. Wear appropriate trail shoes.
Watch for traffic on the Mount Vernon Trail, which is shared with many cyclists.
Make Running in Virginia a Game
Turn your Virginia runs into a real-world strategy game. Capture territory by running loops, compete with local runners on leaderboards, and explore every street through a Fog of War mechanic. Motera adds purpose and competition to every mile.
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MoteraFrequently Asked Questions
What is the Marine Corps Marathon?
The Marine Corps Marathon is one of the largest marathons in the US, starting in Arlington, Virginia, and running through Washington D.C. It is known as "The People's Marathon" because it does not offer prize money, keeping the focus on personal achievement.
Is Virginia good for trail running?
Virginia is exceptional for trail running. Shenandoah National Park, the Blue Ridge Mountains, and the Appalachian Trail all pass through the state. The Blue Ridge Marathon in Roanoke is billed as "America's Toughest Road Marathon" due to its elevation changes.
When is the best time to run in Virginia?
March through June and September through November offer the best conditions. Fall is especially beautiful in the Blue Ridge and Shenandoah Valley with peak foliage.
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