Great Eastern Endurance Run GEER

Immerse Yourself in the Grandeur of Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains with GEER 2025
The Great Eastern Endurance Run (GEER) is making its triumphant return to Sherando Lake Recreation Area after a 15-year hiatus. Organized by Bad to the Bone Sports, this iconic event promises an unforgettable trail running experience in one of Virginia’s most scenic settings.
Set against the backdrop of autumn foliage and rolling hills, GEER offers three challenging distances: 40 miles, 20 miles, and 10 miles. Each route takes runners through dense Appalachian forests, across rocky jeep roads, and up to Bald Mountain's summit. The course is a blend of technical singletrack trails, steep switchbacks, and lush hollows that test both endurance and skill.
The atmosphere at GEER is electric, with an enthusiastic community of trail runners gathering for this long-awaited event. Runners can expect stunning mountain views, rugged terrain, and the thrill of overcoming natural obstacles. The course is designed to challenge even the most seasoned ultrarunners while providing a rewarding experience for those new to longer distances.
Aid stations are strategically placed along each route, ensuring that runners have access to water, electrolyte drinks, snacks, gels, and other essentials. For the 40-mile race, there are seven aid stops, two for the 20 miles, and one for the shorter distance. Crews can drop off supplies at designated points accessible via vehicle along the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Safety is a top priority with strict cutoff times enforced to ensure everyone's well-being: 12 hours for the full marathon and six hours for the half-marathon distances. Drop bags are permitted but must be labeled clearly and kept under one small backpack size. They will return to the finish line between 2 PM and 4 PM, depending on the aid station.
Race day at Sherando Lake Recreation Area promises a unique blend of natural beauty and competitive spirit. Finishers will receive custom-designed medals and high-quality race shirts as souvenirs of their achievement. While park facilities are undergoing upgrades, primitive camping may be available with Forest Service approval.
Registration for GEER 2025 opens on July 25th, offering early bird pricing: $100 for the full marathon until September 1st, then increasing to $110 and $120 thereafter. The half-marathon costs $75 before September 1st, rising to $90 and $105 later on. For the shorter distance of ten miles, entry fees are $55 early bird, escalating to $70 and $85 respectively.
GEER is more than a race; it’s an immersive experience that celebrates trail running's essence in one of America’s most picturesque regions. Join us this fall as we relive the magic of Sherando Lake and rediscover what makes trail racing so special.
For further details, visit www.geerultra.com or contact Francesca Conte at [email protected] for inquiries.