2026 Ashland Railroad Run

The 2026 Ashland Railroad Run, also known as the 47th Annual Ashland Railroad Run, will take place on Saturday, March 21, 2026, in Ashland, Virginia, at 500 South Center Street, which is famously known as the "Center of the Universe." The event is expected to face variable weather conditions, with temperatures ranging from a high of 50°F to a low of 35°F, and a slight chance of rain in the early morning hours. Participants can anticipate a mix of road and gravel trail running, with options for both in-person and virtual participation. The event supports the Hanover Arts & Activities Center and is organized in partnership with Arsenal Events.

What is the event name and date?

The event is called the 2026 Ashland Railroad Run, and it will be held on Saturday, March 21, 2026.

What is the event location?

The event takes place in Ashland, Virginia, at 500 South Center Street, which is known as the "Center of the Universe."

What is the expected weather for the event date?

On March 21, 2026, Ashland is expected to have a high of 50°F and a low of 35°F, with a slight chance of rain in the morning.

What are the available race formats?

The event includes the following formats:

• →Railroad Run 10K (Rails to Trails)
• →RRR 5K
• →COTU Challenge (Center of the Universe)
• →Kids Fun Run

What distances are available for this event?

• →10K race starting at 9:00 AM EDT
• →5K race starting at 8:00 AM EDT
• →COTU Challenge combining the 5K and 10K races
• →Kids Fun Run (short distance)

What is the race schedule?

• →8:00 AM EDT: RRR 5K and COTU Challenge start
• →8:15 AM EDT: Kids Fun Run start
• →9:00 AM EDT: Railroad Run 10K start

What is the registration fee for each event?

• →Railroad Run 10K: $55 (In-person) | $50 (Virtual)
• →RRR 5K: $50 (In-person) | $45 (Virtual)
• →COTU Challenge: $70 (In-person) | $65 (Virtual)
• →Kids Fun Run: $20

What are the registration deadlines for each event?

• →Railroad Run 10K: March 21, 2026, at 11:59 AM EDT (In-person) | 11:59 PM EDT (Virtual)
• →RRR 5K: March 21, 2026, at 11:45 AM EDT
• →COTU Challenge: March 21, 2026, at 11:45 AM EDT
• →Kids Fun Run: March 21, 2026, at 11:00 AM EDT

What is included in the registration?

Participants will receive a tech shirt, access to the event, and the opportunity to win awards. Virtual runners must pick up shirts in person or pay a $10 flat rate for shipping if out of state. Tech shirts are not guaranteed for registrations made after March 3, 2026.

What race support is available?

There are 2 water stations along the course, and the event provides hydration support for all participants.

Are there awards and prizes?

Yes, awards are provided by Lucky Road Run Shop via gift certificates. The 10K top overall finishers (male and female) receive gift certificates, as do the 5K and COTU Challenge top finishers. All Kids Fun Run finishers also receive prizes.

What is the virtual race information?

The virtual race allows participants to run anywhere they choose between the start date and May 14, 2026. Results must be submitted by that date, and participants can track their distance and time via their preferred app or device.

Are there any accessibility considerations for the races?

The RRR 5K and Kids Fun Run are suitable for wheelchairs and strollers, while the Railroad Run 10K is not suitable for strollers or wheelchairs due to the mixed-terrain course.

What is the charity beneficiary?

The event supports the Hanover Arts & Activities Center.

Who is the event partner?

The event is organized in partnership with Arsenal Events.