Foot Levelers Blue Ridge Marathon
Race snapshot
Race Day
43–66°F · Feels cool
Total elevation gain
Very hilly terrain · Net elevation change −26 ft
Crowd Rating
Excellent spectator turnout
The Lowdown
The Foot Levelers Blue Ridge Marathon is organized by Roanoke Outside Foundation in Roanoke, Virginia. The race follows the Blue Ridge Parkway and is marketed as America’s Toughest Road Marathon, with more than 7,430 feet of total elevation change. Proceeds benefit the parkway and local charities. Race weekend includes a half marathon, 10K, Double Marathon, marathon relay, family mile and Sunday Slow-K, alongside virtual options. The marathon, half and 10K begin at 7:35 a.m. ; the double marathon starts at 1 a.m. Participants receive a finisher medal and shirt, and the downtown finish includes local craft beer. The organizer’s mission connects outdoor activity with environmental stewardship. Marathon registration is open to participants 18 and older.
Explore the course
2026 · Marathon
Prepare for This Race
Running this race?
MarathonOS puts your race countdown on your Lock Screen and keeps every race-week checklist on your phone. Checklists and your race report are free for your first race.

Scan to download
Community
Race Day Photos
Share the scenery, finish-line celebrations, and behind-the-scenes snapshots.