Foot Levelers Blue Ridge Marathon

Local runners continue to craft one of the most challenging and best marathons on the east coast. What began in 2010 with 6,140 feet of elevation change has grown each year with this year’s total being 7,430 feet of total elevation change, thus allowing you the claim to fame of completing America’s Toughest Road Marathon.

But organizers felt bad for the half marathon participant. So in 2014 a second mountain was added to the half course thus giving runners the opportunity to tackle America’s Toughest Road Half Marathon. More than 3600′ of elevation change awaits you on the half course.  For those familiar with the full marathon course…the half now incorporates both Mill Mountain and Peakwood.

And for those looking for something a little more tame, why not check out the Anthem Star 10K.  This 10K route takes runners up the parkway to the neon star overlooking Roanoke and back to the finish line.

The uphill portions of these routes will test each runner’s strength and endurance while the equally challenging downhill sections are sure to weed out those who are unprepared. The breathtaking views and stunning Blue Ridge Mountain scenery will offer some reprieve to runners as they persevere to the finish line! Are you up for the challenge of America’s Toughest Road Marathon, Half Marathon, and Star 10K?

• What: Full & Half Marathon. Star 10K. Walking Half. YMCA Kids Marathon
• Where: Roanoke, VA and Blue Ridge Parkway
• Date: April 18, 2015
• Start Time: 7:35 am
• Start/Finish: Elmwood Park/Jefferson Street (downtown Roanoke)
• Total Elevation Change: ~7,430 ft. (full), ~3,600 ft. (half), ~1,800 ft. (10k)
• Most Difficult Section: Roanoke Mountain on Blue Ridge Parkway
• Awards: All runners receive finisher medals plus these additional awards based on place.
• Post-Race Concert:  TBD
• Beneficiaries: Friends of the Blue Ridge Parkway, Roanoke Outside, and Rotary Club
• Honorary Race Chair: Rep. Bob Goodlatte (Va)
• Magnificent Views: Plenty
• Kudos: 

• Featured on The Weather Channel’s list of “World’s 15 Toughest Marathons”.
• Recognized on MarathonGuide.com with a five star rating as one of the best organized and best marathons.
• Profiled in Runners World magazine
• List on Conde Nast Traveler’s “Marathons with gorgeous scenery”
• One of 15 Best Spring Marathons by Daily Burn
• Put to the test by Competitor Magazine

The organizers would like to thank the National Park Service for its support of this event. We would also like to acknowledge the support of Honorary Race Chair Rep. Bob Goodlatte of Roanoke.

Get Running!