Race starts and finishes at the junction of the Virginia Creeper Trail and Watauga Road (St. Rt. 677). This USATF certified course (VA98035RT) is pleasantly scenic. Following an out-and-back first two miles on gently rolling Watauga Road, the rest of the race is run on the Virginia Creeper Trail, a former railroad bed. One of the two out-and-back segments on the Trail is repeated, as is a short portion of the other segment. Runners pass the start/finish area at 2, 9, 18 and 25 miles. The Trail is flat to gentle grade, with (except for the occasional wooden trestle) a soft running surface. Aid stations (water/sports drink) every 2 - 2.5 miles, with refreshments and homemade goodies at the finish.