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Media inquiries: Please contact Dave Neudeck, dave.neudeck@dcr.virginia.gov, 804-786-5053.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: February 24, 2026
Contact: Starr Anderson, Public Relations and Marketing Specialist, 540-460-1540, starr.anderson@dcr.virginia.gov

James River Trail Runs returns to Virginia State Parks Adventure Series

(Editors: Follow this link to download an image. Photo caption: James River State Park)

Gladstone, Va. - Virginia State Parks is excited to announce the return of James River Trail Runs, a premier outdoor event that celebrates fitness, nature and adventure along the scenic James River.

James River Trail Runs is scheduled for April 11 at James River State Park. The race is designed to be flexible and welcoming for all runners, offering 10-, 30- and 50-mile options.

Participants choose their goal distance when they sign up, but if they don’t complete the full mileage, they’ll still get credit for the distance they finished. One loop is 10 miles, so, for example, if a participant registers for 50 miles but only runs three loops, they’ll be credited as a 50K finisher.

Awards are given to the top three males and top three females in each distance.

Race details:

The first half of the loop features a mix of mostly singletrack and some double track.
The second half of the loop follows along the James River and features flat, wide trails.
1,025 feet of elevation gain per loop.
16-hour time limit for all participants.

The 50-mile race is part of the Virginia State Parks Adventure Series presented by Dominion Energy. The series features a year-long lineup of outdoor challenges designed to inspire exploration and adventure across the commonwealth.

Participants earn standings in either competition or achievement categories, with prizes including park passes, cash and REI gift cards.

To learn more about Adventure Series or James River Trail Runs, please go to https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/adventure-series.

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About Virginia State Parks

Virginia State Parks are managed by the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation. For more information about Virginia State Parks’ activities and amenities or to reserve one of the more than 1,800 campsites or 300 climate-controlled cabins, call the Virginia State Parks Reservation Center at 800-933-PARK or visit www.virginiastateparks.gov.

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