Iron Mountain

The Iron Mountain Trail Race (IMTR) is an exhilarating USATF-sanctioned trail running event set against the backdrop of Virginia’s Jefferson National Forest, starting and finishing in Damascus. This challenging race offers four distance options: 16 miles, 30 miles, 40 miles, and a grueling 50-mile course.
Registration for this year opens on June 1st, with early bird fees at $35 per participant if signed up during the first week of registration. After that initial period, prices increase to $70 until two weeks before the event when they rise to $100. Race entry includes aid stations along the course and a post-race meal; however, race shirts are an additional $20.
This year's race has been significantly impacted by Hurricane Helene in September 2024, which caused extensive damage throughout the area. As a result of this storm, some modifications have been made to ensure runner safety while still preserving as much of the original course as possible. The Creeper Trail through Damascus is closed for repairs and will not be used during the race. Instead, runners will start at Damascus Town Park and run on streets and sidewalks before transitioning onto Iron Mountain Trail for an out-and-back route.
The majority of the IMTR follows the historic Appalachian Trail along the Iron Mountain ridgeline, offering a mix of technical single-track trails and easier sections on forest service roads. The 50-mile course features approximately 8,000 feet of elevation gain, making it one of the most challenging in the region.
Participants can expect to traverse through dense forests with stunning views along the way. While much of the terrain is runnable, there are several steep and rocky sections that require careful navigation. Runners must be prepared for potentially dangerous conditions, including road crossings without crossing guards where safety falls solely on each individual runner's responsibility.
Given these challenging elements, it’s crucial to approach this race with a thorough understanding of its demands. The course includes significant elevation changes, technical single-track trails, and stretches that may require more cautious pacing due to mud or loose footing. While the 16-mile distance has an official cutoff time of eight hours, the full marathon (30 miles) allows for ten hours, while both the half-ultra (40 miles) and ultra-distance event (50 miles) have a twelve-hour limit.
For those up for the challenge, the IMTR offers unparalleled natural beauty and a unique test of endurance. The race is designed to push runners to their limits in one of Virginia’s most scenic landscapes, making it an unforgettable experience for trail running enthusiasts who are prepared for its demanding nature.