Mountain Fork Half Marathon
Norton, United States • 20 Sep 2026
Mountain Fork Half Marathon : September 20, 2026
The seventh annual Mountain Fork Half Marathon is scheduled for Sunday, September 20, 2026, in Norton, Virginia. The race starts and finishes at the High Knob Observation Tower on the Jefferson National Forest's Clinch Ranger District in Wise County. The course is a 13.6-mile loop through the Mountain Fork watershed, running predominantly on Forest Service and graveled roads, with about 1,600 feet of total elevation gain. The event is part of the High Knob Triple Crown running series. Race proceeds benefit trail development and maintenance on the Flag Rock Recreation Area trails and on High Knob. Runners who register by September 4, 2026 are guaranteed a race shirt. Registration fees are tiered: $50 (Oct 11, 2025–Mar 31, 2026); $55 (Apr 1–Aug 19, 2026); $60 (Aug 20–Sep 20, 2026).
Course, logistics and awards
The course begins near the High Knob Observation Tower parking area and follows a loop that includes paved approach roads, Forest Road 238, State Route 619, Forest Road 704, and State Route 706 before returning to the tower area. The route is an open course with vehicle traffic and includes sharp and blind curves. Portable toilets will be available at the start/finish area. Aid stations are located at approximately the 2.3-, 5-, 7.8-, and 11.5-mile marks. Timing is by hand. Awards include top three men and women overall, overall masters (age 40 and up), age-group awards (29 and under; 30-39; 40-49; 50-59; 60 and over), and finisher medals. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.