Marathon

Chessie Trail Marathon

Chessie Trail Marathon follows a quiet rail trail past farms and limestone cliffs near Lexington, with gentle grades and a certified BQ course.

Next raceSaturday, November 7, 2026
Distance categoryMarathon
LocationLexington, Virginia
Boston qualifierYes
Get alertsLast checked August 5, 2026BQ times

Quick facts

  • Rail-trail marathon through Rockbridge County countryside.
  • Certified Boston Qualifier with moderate, steady grades.
  • Seven-hour support window for the marathon.
  • Small-field race with seasonal costumes and local volunteers.

About the Chessie Trail Marathon

Run the Chessie is a community race on the Chessie Nature Trail outside Lexington. The marathon's rural setting, small field, and Halloween touches make it a relaxed alternative to a crowded fall city race.

Course

The route uses the compacted rail trail through farmland, tree cover, and sections beside the Maury River. Grades are moderate rather than flat, and mixed trail footing can run slower when the surface is wet.

Race-day weather

Late October and early November usually bring cool running weather. Morning frost, rain-softened trail, or a sunny afternoon are all possible, so traction and layers deserve attention.

Past Chessie Trail Marathon dates and results

YearDateStatusResults
2026Saturday, November 7, 2026Upcoming
2025CompletedOpen results
2024CompletedOpen results

Chessie Trail Marathon FAQ

When is the Chessie Trail Marathon?

The 2026 Chessie Trail Marathon is on Saturday, November 7, 2026.

Is Chessie Trail Marathon a Boston qualifier?

Yes. Chessie Trail Marathon is a Boston Marathon qualifier. To use the result, you must run the certified full-marathon course within the qualifying window and meet the current standard for your age and gender. Meeting the standard lets you apply but does not guarantee entry, and net-downhill courses can receive a time adjustment under current B.A.A. rules. Review the Boston qualifying times and downhill-course rules, or browse upcoming Boston qualifier marathons.

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