Iron Mountain Trail Run
Damascus, United States • 5 Sep 2026
Iron Mountain Trail Run, Damascus, VA
The Iron Mountain Trail Run is a trail race held in Damascus, Virginia with multiple distance options run on the Iron Mountain ridgeline and sections of the VA Creeper Trail. Distances offered include:
- 50 miles, 12 hour time limit
- 40 miles, 12 hour time limit
- 30 miles, 10 hour time limit
- 16 miles, 8 hour time limit
The race normally starts and finishes at the Damascus Town Park gazebo. The route runs east on the VA Creeper Trail to Straight Branch (mile 5), climbs Iron Mountain via the Beech Grove Trail, and follows the Iron Mountain Trail through the Jefferson National Forest. The 50 mile course’s total climb is around 8000 feet. The course includes forest service roads, open running on the Creeper, and technical single track; several road crossings occur along the route.
Recent hurricane damage has prompted modifications: the start may mirror the finish, reducing overall distance by about two miles; each distance may start in 15 minute waves to limit numbers on Trestle 17; a volunteer may control trestle access; trail conditions could be worse than normal and further changes are possible.
Registration details for 2025 note opening on June 1 with early fees and subsequent increases. Fees include aid stations and a post race meal; race shirts are an additional fee. There are no refunds, transfers, or deferrals.
Organizers state the event will follow CDC and VDH guidance and may be changed or canceled. The course has limited on-course medical support and some sections can be steep, rocky, or hazardous; runners are responsible for their own safety. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.