Fast trail half marathon with a killer ridge climb amid Virginia fall foliage

No Service Requirement

Does not require trail or volunteer work

No qualifier race required

The Grindstone half marathon introduces trail runners to the mountain terrain at Natural Chimneys, featuring a fast start on rolling country before a short steep climb to the Narrow Back Mountain ridgeline. Runners enjoy sweeping views before flying back down to the limestone chimneys finish — the most accessible distance at the festival.

This event uses open registration - no lottery entry required.

This event does not require a qualifier for entry.

This race does not have a service requirement for entry.

Natural Chimneys Park and Campground offers on-site camping adjacent to the start/finish area.

No Service Requirement

Does not require trail or volunteer work

No qualifier race required

This event uses open registration - no lottery entry required.

This event does not require a qualifier for entry.

This race does not have a service requirement for entry.

Natural Chimneys Park and Campground offers on-site camping adjacent to the start/finish area.

Location	Mile	Elevation
Start/Finish Start	13.5	1,342 ft
Lick Run Aid Station #1 & #2 Aid Station	4.6	1,759 ft

Location	Mile	Elevation
Start/Finish Start	13.5	1,342 ft
Lick Run Aid Station #1 & #2 Aid Station	4.6	1,759 ft

Grindstone Running Festival 21K

Nearby races

Massanutten Mountain Trails 100 Mile

Laurel Highlands Ultra 70.5 Mile

OG Yeti 100 Mile Endurance Run

Grindstone Running Festival 21K

What Makes It Great

Difficulty