Lace up your trail shoes for the Pocahontas Trail Festival, set to unfold on October 4, 2026, in the scenic Pocahontas State Park in Chesterfield, VA. This beloved event offers runners the choice of a Half Marathon (13.1M) or a challenging 10K, both starting at 9:00 AM. Typical race day conditions in early October offer ideal running weather, with highs around 76F and lows near 55F, and just a 12% chance of precipitation, promising a comfortable and exhilarating experience on the trails.

The Pocahontas Trail Festival boasts a course redesigned in recent years to deliver a truly immersive trail running adventure, moving from mostly fire roads to a more technical, single-track experience. Both distances wind through picturesque hiking trails, offering stunning vistas of Beaver Lake and stretches alongside Swift Creek, with much of the run enveloped by the heavily wooded state park. Runners will appreciate the newly built Coop and Trooper Trails for the final 4+ miles of the Half Marathon, which are described as "very runnable with good footing most of the way," presenting a moderately challenging yet accessible course with some hills that aren't overly technical.

Runners consistently praise the festival's atmosphere, noting it as a "fun trail race" that is well-marked and supported. Aid stations are strategically placed at approximately miles 3, 6, and 9 to keep you fueled, though carrying your own refillable water pack and fuel is recommended given some remote sections of the course. The start and finish are conveniently located in a large grassy field adjacent to the boat launch within the park, marked by distinctive black and orange tents, providing a smooth logistical experience for participants. With professional chip timing, live results, and custom Pocahontas Trail Fest swag, this event promises an unforgettable journey through Virginia's beautiful natural landscapes.