The Alleghany Highlands of Virginia is well-known for its abundant outdoor recreation. Located along Virginia’s border with West Virginia, the region boasts amazing scenery in both the Blue Ridge and Allegheny Mountains. It is home to the Alleghany Highlands Blueway, which includes two lakes and two rivers, plus hundreds of miles of hiking, biking and running trails.
What many people do not know about the Alleghany Highlands is that it hosts some of the finest outdoor competitions in the Mid-Atlantic. There are events for runners, cyclists, triathletes, swimmers and even fishermen.
The competition kicks off in May with three events: Middle Mountain Momma Bicycle Race on May 4; the Alleghany Highlands Triathlon on May 17; and a BASS Tournament at Lake Moomaw also on May 17th.
The second annual Jackson River Scenic Trail Half Marathon is on June 28. This race is destined to grow into a perennial favorite among runners from all across Virginia and beyond. The race course is on the Jackson River Scenic Trail, which is mostly flat as it runs parallel to the Jackson River. There is also a 10K race and 1 Mile Fun Run, which means there is something for everyone in the family.
On the weekend of July 11 – 12, the Alleghany Gran Fondo rolls into the Alleghany Highlands. With a mountainous course, electronic chip timing, and a mass start this event has all the elements of a classic European Gran Fondo. If a 108-mile course is more than you’re willing to tackle, there are options for a 72-mile Medio Fondo and a 30-mile Piccolo Fondo.
A one-mile open water swim competition takes place on August 2, on Lake Moomaw. This is the only open water swimming event in western Virginia. Lake Moomaw is a scenic lake with an undeveloped shoreline surrounded by mountains.
Details and registration information for all of these events can be found at www.visitalleghanyhighlands.com or by calling the Alleghany Highlands Chamber of Commerce and Tourism at 540-962-2178. If you’re a competitive athlete or just want to enjoy the action as a spectator, get to the Alleghany Highlands this summer for outdoor fun.
