Foot Levelers Blue Ridge Marathon 2025

• Challenging Course: Known as "America's Toughest Road Marathon" with a 7,430-foot elevation change.
• Scenic Views: Offers breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and runs along the Blue Ridge Parkway.
• Community Vibe: Part of a weekend event with a music festival and recovery activities.
• Limited Entry: Only 750 spots available; early registration recommended.
• Race Logistics: Starts at Elmwood Park in downtown Roanoke; includes significant climbs and aid stations.

Dubbed “America’s Toughest Road Marathon,” the Foot Levelers Blue Ridge Marathon boasts a formidable course with a staggering 7,430 feet of elevation change, offering participants breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and an unparalleled challenge. This race caters to seasoned marathoners aiming for a once-in-a-lifetime experience against nature’s backdrop.

The marathon is the centerpiece of a weekend filled with activities, including a half marathon, a 10K, and a family 1-miler, providing opportunities for runners of various skill levels to join the celebration. Beyond the demanding race, the event is known for its warm southern hospitality, featuring a welcoming party, packet pickup, race expo, and a lively finish festival complete with live music and recovery zones.

With the participant number limited to 750, the race ensures an intimate atmosphere, allowing runners to connect more personally with the majestic surroundings and fellow participants. Aid stations equipped with Tailwind hydration and GU Energy nutrition, combined with the support services offered at the finish line by Fleet Feet Sports, featuring massages and physical therapy, round out the runner-focused amenities.

The challenge of maintaining a pace of 16:20 minutes per mile due to the 7.5-hour cut-off adds an additional layer of strategic planning for endurance athletes. The event concludes with the Sunday Slow-K, an enjoyable cool-down run known for its post-race treats like coffee, donuts, and a mimosa bar, contributing to the weekend’s vibrant running community atmosphere. All these features make the Blue Ridge Marathon not just a race, but an entire experience that leaves a lasting impression and a true test of fortitude.

Expect temperatures ranging from 43-75°F (6-24°C) during the Foot Levelers Blue Ridge Marathon in Roanoke, Virginia, in mid-April. Prepare for a 37% chance of rain, with light showers being common. The area can be breezy, so dressing in layers is advisable for comfort throughout the race.

Experience the thrill and beauty of the Foot Levelers Blue Ridge Marathon, renowned as "America's Toughest Road Marathon." This course offers an exhilarating challenge with a total elevation change of 7,430 feet, ensuring a journey through some of the most stunning landscapes in Virginia.

Starting in downtown Roanoke, the course takes you on a breathtaking adventure along the Blue Ridge Parkway. Begin with a formidable 2-mile ascent up Mill Mountain, setting the stage for the demanding climbs and descents that follow. The highlight is the climb up Roanoke Mountain, where a 780-foot ascent over two miles rewards you with sweeping views of the majestic mountains and valleys. As you reach the iconic Mill Mountain Star, take in the panoramic vistas of the Roanoke Valley.

The course continues with a brisk 2-mile descent down Prospect Avenue, testing your endurance and control. The final stretch through South Roanoke offers rolling hills and a glimpse of historic charm, with its picturesque homes and brief encounters with the Roanoke River.

This marathon is not for the faint of heart. The steep elevation changes and taxing downhills challenge every runner, pushing you to your limits. With a cut-off time of 7.5 hours and intermediate time checks, it demands both physical stamina and mental grit. Yet, the unforgettable scenery and sense of accomplishment make every step worthwhile. Embrace the adventure and conquer the Blue Ridge Marathon.

Roanoke, Virginia, offers a captivating mix of outdoor adventure and cultural exploration, perfect for marathon travelers. Nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Roanoke is easily accessible via Interstate 81, the Blue Ridge Parkway, or the Roanoke-Blacksburg Regional Airport. The city is compact and ready for exploration by foot or bike, with the historic Hotel Roanoke and Conference Center providing a charming accommodation option among various downtown hotels and bed-and-breakfasts.

Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to love in the Roanoke Valley, renowned for its hiking, mountain biking, and kayaking opportunities. The Appalachian Trail and Blue Ridge Parkway present stunning trails and vistas, while the Mill Mountain Zoo and the iconic Roanoke Star offer unique experiences. Explore Park is a must-visit for its Treetop Quest Aerial Adventure Course and the chance to tube along the Roanoke River.

Culturally, Roanoke shines with its vibrant arts scene. The Taubman Museum of Art and Virginia Museum of Transportation are highlights, while the city's public murals add a splash of color to the streets. The Historic Roanoke City Market invites visitors to enjoy its unique shopping and dining. For a taste of local culture, catch live performances at the Jefferson Center or Mill Mountain Theatre. Whether you're savoring local cuisine or enjoying a festival, Roanoke promises a fulfilling travel experience beyond the marathon.