Conquer The Cove Marathon Trail Race

Conquer The Cove Marathon Trail Race

Conquer The Cove takes place on May 31, 2026 at Sherwood Archers, 2720 Timberview Rd, Roanoke, VA, within Carvins Cove Natural Reserve. The event offers multiple race formats and includes trail and virtual options. The timing of the event is noted as a time of year when mountain laurel and rhododendrons are in bloom.

Available distances:

• 15.86 miles (25k) trail race
• 15.86 miles virtual option
• 26.46 miles (marathon) trail race
• 26.46 miles virtual option

Carvins Cove Natural Reserve covers about 12,700 acres and contains approximately 40 miles of roads and trails. The race plan uses a large portion of the park, with roughly 80% of the park trails included. Marking and trail maintenance are part of the course plan.

Course characteristics are described in concrete terms. The marathon route includes approximately 3,500 feet of elevation gain, with about 1,000 feet of that gain occurring after mile 18. That later climb is followed by 2.35 miles of downhill running and then about 2 miles of relatively easy terrain to the finish. The virtual entries function as run anywhere options and count as RNUTS qualifying races. Virtual registrants receive a race shirt if registered by May 6, 2026, otherwise they receive socks or a hoo rag. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.