Hone Quarry 40 Miler

Event overview

The Hone Quarry Ultra is a trail endurance race held in the Shenandoah Valley with start and finish at Briery Branch near Dayton, VA. The race distance is 41.4 miles with about 8,000' of ascent and 8,000' of descent. Participation is limited to 125 runners under the event's Forest Service permit.

Course and logistics

The loop course includes several out-and-back sections through the George Washington National Forest. Trail features listed for the course include towering cliff walls, open meadows, single-track, vistas, and waterfalls. Noted landmarks are the Hidden Rocks trail, "Lover's Leap" Overlook, Hone Quarry Falls, HQ Reservoir, and Flagpole Knob. There are 6 fully stocked aid stations. Crews and pacers are not allowed because of remote access. Drop bags are allowed at Union Springs (mile 12.7), HQ (mile 19.5), and Big Hollow (mile 29.2). The race uses a 13 hours 15 minutes cutoff.

Registration, fees and prizes

Start/finish and parking are at the Briery Branch Church Activity Building, address 6494 Daniel Cupp Rd, Dayton, VA 22821; restroom facilities are available. Registration closes March 21, 2026. Entry pricing for the 40 miler is listed in three tiers: Early Bird $110, General $125, Last Call $140. Podium awards and prize money are offered for the top three male and female finishers: $125 for 1st, $100 for 2nd, and $75 for 3rd. All registrations are non-refundable; transfers and limited deferrals are described in the event policy. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.