Mountain Fork Half Marathon
Norton, United States • 20 Sep 2026
Mountain Fork Half Marathon
The Mountain Fork Half Marathon is a 13.6-mile loop that starts and finishes at the High Knob Observation Tower in Wise County, Norton, Virginia. The course runs primarily on Forest Service roads through the Mountain Fork watershed and returns to the parking area below the tower. The starting area sits at approximately 4,200 feet above sea level and the course has a total elevation gain of about 1,600 feet.
Course routing follows the High Knob approach road and a sequence of paved and forest roads, including Forest Road 238, State Route 619, Forest Road 704, and State Route 706, before returning on Forest Road 238 to the tower approach road. Aid stations are located near the 2.3-, 5-, 7.8-, and 11.5-mile markers. The route is an open course with vehicle traffic on parts of the roads; runners should be visible on contained road sections.
Event logistics include packet pick-up at the City of Norton Reservoir Trailhead with parking at that site and shuttle service to and from the start/finish area. Portable toilets will be available at the start/finish. Timing will be done by hand; bibs should be displayed at the finish. Awards and finisher medals are planned, including top overall and age-group awards. Proceeds support trail development and maintenance on the Flag Rock Area Trails and on High Knob. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.