Chessie Trail Marathon
Lexington, United States • 25 Oct 2025
Run the Chessie : October 25, 2025
Run the Chessie takes place on the Chessie Nature Trail at the southern end of the Shenandoah Valley, linking Lexington, Virginia, and Buena Vista along the Maury River. The event offers multiple race options:
- 26.2 miles Marathon
- 13.1 miles Half Marathon
- 10K
- 5K
- 26.2 Relay (four legs: approximately 8.5m, 4.6m, 8.5m, 4.6m) A Virtual Option is available for the Marathon, Half, 10K, and 5K with amenities mailed to participants; virtual entrants are not eligible for awards.
Course, rules, and services
All four courses are USATF certified and the event is USATF sanctioned; the Marathon is a Boston qualifier. The trail is a gentle grade, roughly 10 feet wide, with a smooth gravel and grass surface that follows the former rail line and canal towpath. The start and finish are at McKethan Park/I-81 overpass. Aid stations are located at the start/finish, turnarounds, and near the South River bridge and will offer water, Gatorade, fruit, and snacks; porta-potties and bag drop facilities are provided. Walkers are permitted in the 5K, 10K, and Half Marathon. Race rules include no strollers and no animals except service animals; earbuds are permitted but discouraged. Registration is online, with a registration cutoff before race day; transfers or deferrals are allowed until a specified date and refunds are not offered. Custom finisher medals, race shirts, chip timing, and post-race food are among the listed amenities. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.