Mountain Fork Half Marathon
Norton, United States • 20 Sep 2026
Event overview
The Mountain Fork Half Marathon is a 13.6-mile race in Norton, Virginia, held on Sunday, September 20, 2026. The course starts and finishes at the High Knob Observation Tower on the Jefferson National Forest's Clinch Ranger District. The event is the seventh annual running of this race. All race proceeds benefit trail development and maintenance on the Flag Rock Area Trails system in the City of Norton and on High Knob.
Course and race details
The route loops through the Mountain Fork watershed, primarily on Forest Service roads and some state routes, and returns to the tower parking area. The starting elevation is about 4,200 feet and the total elevation gain is 1,600 feet. Course directions use the High Knob approach road, Forest Road 238, State Route 619, Forest Road 704, State Route 706, and a final climb of about 0.15 miles back to the tower. Aid stations are located at approximately the 2.3-, 5-, 7.8-, and 11.5-mile markers. Packet pick-up is at the City of Norton Reservoir Trailhead off State Route 619; runners will park at that site and be shuttled to the tower area. Portable toilets will be provided at the start/finish area. Timing is by hand; bibs should be displayed when crossing the finish line. Awards include top three men and women overall, overall masters (age 40 and up), age group awards, and finisher medals. All runners must complete the course by 12:30 p.m. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.