FROM START TO HEART

The 2026 Bridge & Trestle 17 Mile Run will be held on Saturday, December 13th. The run will be entirely on the Virginia Creeper Trail, the exact course will be determined a bit closer to the race date, but hopefully we’ll be back in Damascus!!

Race day packet pickup will begin at 8:30AM and the race will start at 10:00AM. To continue our effort in keeping our beautiful trail clean and free of any trash, we're going cup-less again this year. To help with this effort, we will have easy to carry, collapsible cups at packet pickup. You will be able to use one of these cups (or your own hydration system) during the race at our aid stations. We will have hot beverages and snacks available at the finish.

This is a FREE run hosted by the State of Franklin Track Club and is part of the Club’s Trail Series and Long Distance Series competitions. Come out and join your fellow runners on this beautiful trail. Please note that traditional awards are not given at this race, but ... the overall male and female, the person who finishes in the middle of the pack, and the final finisher will receive a handmade memento. This year it will be zippered shoe bags with the State of Franklin Track Club logo.

Join us for the Damascus Festival of Miles, a timed loop event set in the heart of the beautiful Damascus, Virginia. This exciting race offers 3, 6, and 12-hour options this year. Race participants will complete laps on a scenic 1-mile loop through the park, with more than 100 spots available for runners to set up their campsites right next to the course.

The festivities kick off on Friday, October 2, with a half day of race prep and early packet pick-up. On Saturday, October 3, the full race day begins with live music, food trucks, and a vibrant atmosphere at the park’s gazebo, where participants and spectators can relax and enjoy the event.

For those planning to stay the night, registered runners will have the unique opportunity to camp overnight on Friday in their reserved space, making this a true festival experience.

Whether you're looking to challenge yourself for a few hours or spend the day racing around the loop, the Damascus Festival of Miles offers an unforgettable experience in one of Virginia’s most scenic and welcoming race locations.

Damascus Festival of Miles - Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is the Damascus Festival of Miles?

The Damascus Festival of Miles is a unique timed loop race event held in the beautiful town of Damascus, Virginia. Participants can choose from 3, 6, or 12-hour timed races, running laps around a scenic 1-mile loop through the park. This festival also includes live music, food trucks, and an overnight camping experience for registered runners.

2. When is the race?

The Damascus Festival of Miles will be held on October 2-3, 2026. The event kicks off with a half-day on Friday, October 2, and continues all day Saturday, October 3.

3. Can I camp at the event?

Yes! Registered runners will have the opportunity to camp overnight in the park on Friday, October 2. Each runner will be assigned a reserved space along the course to set up camp for the night.

4. What are the race distance options?

This year’s race will offer three timed race options:

3-Hour Race

6-Hour Race

12-Hour Race

Each participant will run as many laps as possible within the chosen time frame.

5. How do I register for the race?

You can register for the Damascus Festival of Miles directly on RunSignup. Simply visit the Registration page, choose your race option, and fill out the registration form. Early registration is encouraged to secure your spot!

6. Is there a time limit for completing the race?

Yes, each race is timed based on the distance you select. The goal is to complete as many laps as you can within your chosen time limit:

3-Hour Race: 3 hours to complete as many laps as possible

6-Hour Race: 6 hours to complete as many laps as possible

12-Hour Race: 12 hours to complete as many laps as possible

7. Can I walk during the race?

Absolutely! The Damascus Festival of Miles is open to runners and walkers alike. The timed format allows participants to set their own pace, whether you're aiming for a competitive finish or just enjoying the scenery at a leisurely pace.

8. What’s the course like?

The course is a scenic 1-mile loop through Damascus Town Park, featuring a mix of paved and trail sections. The route is designed to highlight the natural beauty of the area, with views of surrounding forests and the town.

9. What amenities are provided at the event?

The Damascus Festival of Miles will feature:

Live music and entertainment at the gazebo

Food trucks offering a variety of food and beverages

A designated camping area for registered runners

Aid stations along the course with water and snacks

10. Is there parking available at the event?

Yes, there will be designated parking areas available near the event site. Please plan to arrive early, especially if you are camping overnight.

11. Are there awards for the races?

Yes! We will have awards for top finishers (1st, 2nd, 3rd) in each race category. In addition, there will be special recognition for participants who complete the most laps within their time frame.

12. Can I volunteer at the event?

Yes, volunteers are an essential part of making the Damascus Festival of Miles a success! We are looking for enthusiastic volunteers to help with race logistics, aid stations, registration, and more. Volunteers will have access to Volunteer Village! Visit the Volunteer page on our website for more information on how you can get involved.

13. How can I stay updated on event details?

To stay updated on race details, including any changes or additional announcements, be sure to follow us on our social media accounts at Run Damascus and SWVA Running. You can also check our website for the latest updates.

14. Do I get a shirt?

Yes! All registered runners will receive a race shirt.