Into the Darkness

The race starts on the main road at the Visitor's Center.

From there you will run the Beginner Trail (.8 mile) - This section of trail is rolling. About .5 mile into it there is a short moderate 3 switchback climb that leads you to the exit of the beginner trail and a road crossing.

This will lead you to the intermediate biking trails (.67 mile) - This starts with a fast .25 mile downhill with a sudden right hand turn halfway down and then, about 200 yards later, another sudden left hand turn.. From here it will roll for about .2 miles. You will cross a bridge and start your climb to the Endurance Loop. This climb will get your heart rate up. There are 5 or so switchbacks on the way up this .2 mile hill.

Next is the endurance loop to the fire road (1.26 miles) - This is a fast fun rolling twisty section of trail. There are two short sections with some fist sized rocks (some are loose and some are embedded).

Now, down the fire road to the road along the river (.11 mile) - This is just a quick steep downhill down to the river on a fire/jeep road.

The end of the race takes along a gravel road along the river back to the Visitor's Center (1.18 miles) - The first half of this section is flat while along the river. The 2nd half is on an asphalt road that is not maintained. This 2nd half will take you on a short steep section for .15 mile and then the remaining .4 miles to the finish line is not as steep, but still a good climb. The finish is in front of the Visitor's Center on the sidewalk.

Into the Darkness 4 Mile Night Trail Run 10/23/10 at 7:00pm

Mail-in Registration $20 until October 9th

(Click above for link) $30 after October 9th

About the race
This is one of the Roanoke Valley’s most unique events. The course will take you through 4 miles of the IMBA designed trails. The course consists of 3 miles of twisty rolling single track and 1 mile of grass and asphalt roads. These trails will be marked with reflective arrows, glow sticks, and the occasional surprise. Every effort will be taken so that you will easily be able to find your way and stay on course.

A light source is mandatory; it is recommended that you have at least a headlamp or flashlight. I personally think it is best to carry one of each. A headlamp to see where you are going and a flashlight to cast shadows and give you depth perception (easier to see those sneaky roots and rocks). We will leave this up to your personal preference. It is recommended that you try your choice of light source under similar conditions prior to running the race.

PLEASE NOTE—Headlamps, flashlights, and any other light source will not be provided by race management.

Age brackets for the races include, for both male and female:

14 and under; 15-19, 20-24; 25-29; 30-34; 35-39; 40-44; 45-49;

50-54; 55-59; 60 and over

The top 3 overall male and female finishers for each race will receive distinctive awards.

The top three finishers in each age group will receive a medal recognizing their achievement.

Directions to the Explore Park

Once on the Blue Ridge Parkway go to milepost 115. Take the road into the Explore Park. Once in the gate you will park in the first lot on your right. Race headquarters will be in the Visitor's Center.

Contact me at info@mountainjunkies.net for any questions about this race.