Blue Ridge Running Retreat

Roaring Gap, North Carolina. Blue Ridge Mountains. A trail running getaway that blends adventure, training, and relaxation. The Blue Ridge Running Retreat returns August 7‑9, 2026. Three days of guided trail runs: Day 1 (~10 miles, remote Parkway trails, river soak finish), Day 2 (~8 miles, scenic and historic trails, swimming hole finish), Day 3 (~7 miles, signature mountain run, optional extra miles). Stay in a comfortable lodge with stunning mountain views — not rustic tents or cabins. On‑site chef‑prepared lunches, coaching presentations, transportation to trailheads, and a first‑night dinner included. Hosted by 12th State Endurance.

Location — Roaring Gap, Alleghany County, Northwest North Carolina:

• Roaring Gap is a small mountain community in the Blue Ridge Mountains, near the Virginia border, about 2 hours northwest of Winston‑Salem
• The Blue Ridge Parkway runs nearby, offering access to remote forest trails, scenic overlooks, and high‑country views
• The lodge is situated on a ridge with stunning mountain views — a true retreat setting

Itinerary — Three Days of Guided Trail Running:

• Day 1 (Friday, August 7) — Remote Parkway Trails (~10 miles). Navigate quiet forest trails with moderate elevation gain, stream crossings, and long stretches of peaceful woodland. Cool off with a refreshing river soak at the finish.
• Day 2 (Saturday, August 8) — Scenic & Historic Trails (~8 miles). Take in scenic viewpoints and historic landmarks, plus lesser‑known "hidden gem" trails. End the day at a local swimming hole.
• Day 3 (Sunday, August 9) — Signature Mountain Run (~7 miles, optional extra miles). One of the best routes in the area — smooth running trails and breathtaking mountain views. Extend the adventure with connecting trails for extra mileage.
• All runs are guided — no navigation worries. Transportation to and from each trailhead is included.

Accommodations — Comfortable Lodge, Not Rustic Camping:

• The lodge is a standout feature — not an afterthought. Outside deck with stunning views, game room, comfortable living area, and shared spaces for relaxing and connecting with fellow runners
• Room options:
  — King suite (private bathroom, beautiful views) — $1,000 (second person +$300)
  — Queen loft — $800 (second person +$300)
  — Bunkroom (modest shared accommodations, great views) — $600
• No pets permitted
• More photos and information available on the event website

What's Included:

• Three days of guided trail runs (Day 1 ~10 mi, Day 2 ~8 mi, Day 3 ~7 mi + optional)
• Premium lodge accommodations (3 nights — check‑in Thursday afternoon)
• Transportation to and from each trailhead
• Pre‑run breakfast options (bagels, muffins, pastries, snacks)
• Freshly prepared lunch by an on‑site chef (after each run)
• First night's dinner (Friday evening)
• Short coaching presentations during lunch (training strategies, racing tips, nutrition)
• Event running shirt
• Access to the lodge's game room, deck, and shared living spaces
• Community with fellow trail runners

Not Included:

• Evening dinners after the first night (participants can explore local restaurants or self‑cater)
• Alcoholic beverages
• Travel to/from Roaring Gap
• Personal gear (running shoes, hydration packs, etc.)

Recommended Ability Level:

• Comfortable running up to ~10 miles on mountain trails (rocky, rooty, with moderate elevation gain)
• Not for beginners — some trail running experience recommended
• All paces welcome — this is a retreat, not a race; the group will stay together or have multiple pace groups

12th State Endurance Guides — Brandon Weaver & Andrew Kinder:

• Brandon Weaver — founder and coach at 12th State Endurance. Native of Wilkes County, former lawyer, now head cross country and distance running coach at North Wilkes High School. Spent his entire life exploring the trails of the region.
• Andrew Kinder — lifelong Wilkes County resident, physical education teacher at Mulberry Elementary School. Has coached high school cross country, middle school sports, and directs the Mulberry Stampede 5K. Has run everything from 5Ks to marathons to 200‑mile relays.
• Both coaches are passionate about sharing the beauty of Northwest North Carolina's trails and helping runners achieve their personal goals.

Beyond Running — Other Local Activities:

• Hiking on the Blue Ridge Parkway
• Trout fishing in local streams
• Golf at nearby courses
• Sightseeing in the Blue Ridge region
• Visiting local wineries and restaurants
• Exploring the charming towns of Sparta, West Jefferson, and Galax, VA

Logistics:

• Arrival: Thursday afternoon (August 6) at the lodge (check‑in time not specified — contact organizer)
• Departure: Sunday afternoon (August 9) after the final run and lunch
• Address: 331 Ridge Road, Roaring Gap, NC
• Parking available at the lodge (free)
• Nearest airports: Charlotte Douglas (CLT) ~2 hours, Greensboro (GSO) ~1.5 hours, Tri‑Cities (TRI) ~1.5 hours
• No dogs allowed
• No refunds? Check with 12th State Endurance — likely no refunds close to retreat date

Pricing (per person, all fees included):

• King suite: $1,000 (second person +$300)
• Queen loft: $800 (second person +$300)
• Shared beds/bunks: $600
• Prices include lodging, guided runs, meals (breakfast, lunch, first night's dinner), coaching, and transportation

Why Choose the Blue Ridge Running Retreat:

• A true retreat — not a rugged camping trip. Comfortable lodge, good food, and relaxing evenings
• Guided runs on some of the best trails in Northwest North Carolina
• Small group size — personalized attention from experienced coaches
• Focus on balance: challenging runs, great food, rest, and community
• Stunning Blue Ridge Mountain scenery — fall colors are weeks away, but summer greens and wildflowers are abundant

Contact: 12th State Endurance — via event website.