THE COURSE - updated for 2026

Starting in 2026, the Marathon and Half Marathon will be run together, beginning on First Avenue in Marlinton, WV. Runners will turn left onto Rt. 39 through the town then turning left, heading north onto the Greenbrier River Trail (before Fourth Avenue). The surface of the trail is mostly packed gravel with a number of flat, wooden bridge crossings.

The Half Marathon turn-around point will be 6.55 miles, where runners will cross a timing mat at the turn-around for their split time and head south, back to town. The Marathon course continues traveling north, through Sharp’s tunnel, before turning around at another timing mat at 13.1 miles. Yes, marathoners will now pass through Sharp’s tunnel twice.

With the out-and-back course, on this 1% grade, runners will have an incline on the way out with a decline on the way back to the finish. Please note that the entire elevation gained over the marathon distance is 160 ft., and roughly 80 ft. of elevation gained for the half marathon.

The trail will provide many scenic views of the Greenbrier River and surrounding hills.  During the race the fall colors should be out in full force.

There will be mile markers and volunteer aid stations providing hydration.

This new course is officially certified through USATF, therefore a Boston Qualifier.

Full Marathon certificate number: WV26007MS

Half Marathon certificate number: WV26008MS

Water Stop Locations:

*Please note that the following miles are approximate.

Half Marathon Route:

  1. Halfway Run (mile 3.5)

  2. Thorny Creek Rd (mile 5.5)

    Campsite/Half Marathon Turnaround (mile 6.55)

  3. Thorny Creek Rd (mile 7.5)

  4. Halfway Run (mile 9.5)

  5. Picnic Table (last one before finish line)

Full Marathon Route:

  1. Halfway Run (mile 3.5)

  2. Thorny Creek Rd (mile 5.5)

  3. Sharp’s Tunnel (mile 9.5)

  4. Marathon Turnaround (mile 13.1)

  5. Hitching Post (mile 15.3)

  6. Sharp’s Tunnel (mile 17.5)

  7. Thorny Creek Rd (mile 21.5)

  8. Halfway Run (mile 23.5)

  9. Picnic Table (last one before finish line)

Restrooms:

There will be restrooms available at start/finish as well as on course at Thorny Creek Rd and Sharp’s Tunnel.

Our Mission

To bring a one-of-a-kind event to Pocahontas County, WV and to give back to the community in the process.  To share the beauty of the area and the Greenbrier River Trail with the world. 

 

Register Here: 2026 Greenbrier River Trail Marathon & Half Marathon