
Southwest Virginia Running is your one-stop hub for all things related to running in the stunning region of Southwest Virginia. From local road races to scenic trail races to ultra endurance challenges, we are committed to fostering a vibrant running community and providing you with unforgettable race experiences that include our races, but also races we support and endorse locally.
Explore Our Races & Beyond
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Crystal Springs Ultra Races – Push your limits with a variety of ultra distances, including Half, Full, and Ultra options, set in the breathtaking backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
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Damascus Festival of Miles – A timed loop race offering 3, 6, and 12-hour options, with live music, food trucks, and an unforgettable community atmosphere.
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New River Trail Races – Experience the beauty of Southwest Virginia on the New River Trail, with distances ranging from 5K to 100K.
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Upcoming Events – Stay tuned for new race announcements, community races, and more!

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What is Southwest Virginia Running?Southwest Virginia Running is your one-stop destination for all running events in Southwest Virginia. We offer a variety of races, from ultra-trail challenges to shorter distances, all set against the beautiful backdrop of the region’s natural landscapes. Our mission is to create unforgettable race experiences while supporting local races and charitable initiatives.
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How do I register for a race?You can register for a race by visiting the specific race page on our website or by checking the Calendar of Events for registration links. Each race listed will have a direct link to its registration page.
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What races are offered by SWVA Running?SWVA Running hosts a variety of races throughout the year, including: Crystal Springs Ultra Races - August Damascus Festival of Miles - October (new this year!) New River Trail Races - April Check out our Race Calendar for upcoming events and more details.
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How can I volunteer at an event?Volunteers are crucial to the success of our events! Contact us for more information on available roles and how you can get involved. Volunteers receive a special thank-you package, including event gear and free race access for future events.
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Can I camp at the race venues?Yes, many of our events, including the Damascus Festival of Miles and New River Trail Races, offer camping for registered runners. Check the specific event details for camping options and availability on our website.
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What is the race course like?Our races are set on scenic trails through the beautiful landscapes of Southwest Virginia. Whether it’s the rugged terrain of the Crystal Springs Ultra or the picturesque New River Trail, expect diverse and breathtaking views throughout your race. If you have any specific questions, please contact us at [info@newrivertrail50k.com](mailto:info@newrivertrail50k.com).
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Is there a time limit for races?Yes, some of our races have time limits based on the race distance and terrain. For example, the Damascus Festival of Miles features 3, 6, and 12-hour timed races. Please check individual race pages for specific time limits.
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Can I promote my race on the Southwest Virginia Running Calendar of Events?Yes! The Southwest Virginia Running Calendar of Events includes road races, trail races, ultras, and more that are directed by other organizations but are highly recommended by us. If you have an event you'd like us to feature on our calendar, please contact us with your event details. Our calendar serves as a great way to connect runners with high-quality events across the region.