Iron Mountain Trail Run
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Iron Mountain
Iron Mountain is a trail race that starts and finishes at the Damascus Town Park gazebo in Damascus, VA. Four distance options are offered:
- 16 miles
- 30 miles
- 40 miles
- 50 miles
The course follows the Iron Mountain ridgeline through the Jefferson National Forest and much of the route follows what used to be the Appalachian Trail. Footing varies from open running along the VA Creeper Trail and forest service roads to technical single track. The total climb for the 50 mile distance is around 8000 feet. Official time limits are 12 hours for the 50 mile and 40 mile events, 10 hours for the 30 mile event, and 8 hours for the 16 mile event.
The listed course description reflects the usual route, including section mileages and turnarounds, but recent storm damage has required modifications. The Creeper Trail through Damascus is not open for use; after leaving the park runners initially use streets and sidewalks through town before joining the Iron Mountain Trail. The 2024 damage may shorten the race by about 2 miles and could require further changes. Trail conditions may be worse than in previous years.
Registration typically opens June 1. Early registration fees are $35 the first week, then $70, and increase to $100 two weeks before the event; race shirts are an additional $20. There are no refunds, no entry transfers, and no deferrals. For 2026 the race tested same-day registration up to 15 minutes before race start.
Runners should note the course includes steep, rocky, and muddy sections, road crossings without crossing guards, and no medical assistance on course. Emergency care may be hours away; runners are responsible for their own safety on the trail. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
