Chestnut Ridge Loop Winter Trail Run – Jan 10 2026 (Snow Date Jan 17)

Breaking: Winter Trail Run Set to Kick Off Roanoke Valley Season, Snow Date Announced

Breaking news from the Roanoke Valley: a winter trail run is slated to open the local running calendar this Saturday, Jan. 10, 2026, with the start set for 9:00 a.m.at New Hope Christian Church. A snow date is planned for Jan. 17, 2026. If severe weather cancels the National Park Service permit, the race will be held the following Saturday at Moneta Park.

Participants will tackle the Chestnut Ridge Loop, a 5.6-mile single-track circuit that winds around the Roanoke Mountain campground. The route is described as fast and flowy, designed to withstand winter conditions, and is a popular choice for January training. Walkers are welcome to join the event.

the event’s headquarters are anchored at New Hope Christian Church, which provides a convenient base with ample parking near the loop corridor.

event Details at a Glance

item	Details
Date & Time	Jan. 10,2026,9:00 a.m.
Snow Date	Jan. 17, 2026 (If weather cancels the permit, the event moves to Moneta Park the following Saturday)
Course	Chestnut Ridge Loop, 5.6 miles, single-track
location	Roanoke Mountain Campground area, accessible from downtown
Event HQ & Parking	New Hope Christian Church; ample parking nearby
participation	Runners encouraged; walkers welcome

Why This Event Matters

The Chestnut Ridge Loop is a year-round staple in the valley’s trail network. Its design offers a versatile training ground for a range of races and fitness goals, making january a natural kickoff for athletes and casual participants alike.

Evergreen Takeaways for Outdoor Events

Shared spaces with clear logistics-such as a defined route, a nearby headquarters with parking, and a backup snow date-help ensure community outdoor events remain accessible and safe across seasons.This model can guide similar initiatives in other regions seeking reliable, community-driven fitness opportunities.

Readers, will you participate in the January event or its snow-date alternative? Which local trails would you like highlighted in future editions?

Join the conversation by sharing your plans or past experiences with Chestnut Ridge Loop in the comments below.

What are the race categories and distances for the Chestnut Ridge loop Winter Trail Run?

Chestnut Ridge Loop Winter Trail Run – Jan 10 2026 (Snow Date Jan 17)

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Event overview

• Date & Time: Primary race - January 10, 2026, 7:30 AM; Snow date - January 17, 2026 (same start time).
• Location: Chestnut Ridge Loop, Bucks County, Pennsylvania (coordinates 40.2598 N, ‑74.9275 W).
• Organizer: Bucks County Running Club (BCRC) in partnership with the Pennsylvania Trail Association.
• Distance & Categories:

1. 15‑km (9.3 mi) Classic Loop – open to all skill levels.
2. 30‑km (18.6 mi) Ultra Loop – for experienced trail runners.
3. 5‑km “Kids & families“ - non‑competitive, optional stroller‑amiable route.

Why this race matters: The chestnut Ridge Loop is a historic winter trail event that draws regional elite runners, family groups, and winter‑running enthusiasts. The snow‑date ensures a safe, well‑packed course when February snowpack is typical for the area.

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course Details

Feature	Description
Total Elevation Gain	1,150 ft (15 km) / 2,350 ft (30 km)
Terrain	Mixed hardwood forest,rocky outcrops,occasional snow‑covered ridgelines,and a single creek crossing (frozen in winter).
key Landmarks	1️⃣ Chestnut Summit (viewpoint) 2️⃣ Old Mill Bridge (covered) 3️⃣ winter Meadow Loop (open field).
Technical Sections	Frost‑slick rock stairs (0.7 km) and glacier‑like footing on the ridgeline (1.2 km).
Aid Stations	every 4 km – stocked with hot tea, electrolyte drink, and emergency blankets.
Finish Line	Community Center parking lot, with post‑race warming tent and recovery zone.

Course Map Access: Downloadable GPX file (link on BCRC website) and interactive Google Map for pre‑race navigation.

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Snow Date Adjustment (Jan 17)

• trigger Criteria: > 2 inches of fresh snowfall or −5 °F average temperature forecast for race day.
• Dialog Protocol: Email and SMS push notification 48 hours before the race; live updates on the race‑day Facebook page.
• Course Modifications:

1. Snow‑packed ridgeline flagged with biodegradable tape for visibility.
2. Creek crossing may be closed; alternate route via the “Lower Trail” (0.5 km detour).
3. Refund Policy: Full refund available if race is canceled after the snow date is declared; otherwise, entry transfers to the next scheduled race.

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Registration & Fees

Category	Early‑Bird (by Oct 31)	Standard (by Dec 31)	On‑Site
15 km	$55	$65	$80
30 km	$85	$95	$110
5 km Kids	$25 (all ages)	$30	$35

– How to Register: Online portal on archyde.com/races/chestnut‑ridge‑loop‑2026 (secure payment, QR‑code confirmation).

• group Discount: 5‑runner team = 10 % off total invoice; coupon code CHRISTMAS10.
• Late‑Registration Deadline: Jan 5 2026 (last day for on‑site bib pick‑up).

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Essential Gear for Winter Trail Running

1. Footwear

• Trail shoes with Vibram Arctic Grip or similar lug pattern.
• Optional Gore‑Tex liners for waterproof protection.
• Apparel
• Layered system: moisture‑wicking base, insulated mid‑layer (fleece or down), wind‑proof outer shell.
• Running‑specific gloves (mittens with thumb loop) and thermal headband.
• Visibility
• Waterproof reflective vest (minimum 1 sq ft).
• headlamp (minimum 150 lumens) – mandatory after 9 AM due to limited daylight.
• Safety Equipment
• Microspike traction (attachable to shoe soles).
• Whistle and compact emergency blanket (in race packet).

Pro tip: Pre‑race, run a quick “snow‑test” on a nearby frozen trail to confirm shoe grip and assess frostbite risk.

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Safety & Weather Considerations

• Temperature Range: Expected −3 °F to 15 °F on Jan 10; −8 °F to 5 °F on Jan 17.
• Wind Chill: Up to −20 °F on exposed ridge; protect extremities.
• Avalanche Risk: None (elevation < 1,500 ft), but ice on rock steps can cause slips.
• Medical Support: On‑site EMTs at each aid station; satellite‑linked first‑aid tent near the finish.

Emergency Procedure: If conditions deteriorate (visibility < 200 ft), race director will issue a “Hold” command; runners instructed to return to the last aid station for shelter.

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Nutrition & Hydration Strategy

Timing	Recommendation
Pre‑Race (30 min)	250 ml warm oat latte + 1 banana.
Every 4 km	200 ml warm electrolyte drink (saline + honey).
Mid‑Race (15 km)	Energy gel (Caffeine‑free) + small handful of dried apricots.
Finish	Hot chocolate, protein bar, and rehydration shake (30 g whey).

– Hydration Tips: Carry a hand‑warmable insulated bottle; avoid plastic bottles that can become brittle in extreme cold.

• avoid: Over‑hydrating, as cold air reduces perceived thirst.

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Race Day Logistics

• Bib Pick‑Up: Dec 28 - jan 5, 7 AM- 12 PM at Chestnut Ridge Community center (parking validated).
• Parking: free lot (capacity 120 cars); overflow directed to “North lot” (shuttle service every 15 min).
• Start Corrals:
• Corridor A: 15 km - 30 min before start.
• Corridor B: 30 km - 45 min before start.
• Corridor C: 5 km - 15 min before start.
• Timing System: Chip timing (Garmin Edge 850) + manual backup. Results posted within 2 hours on archyde.com.

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Volunteer & Spectator Information

• Volunteer Shifts: 2‑hour blocks (aid stations, course marshals, registration). Minimum age 16 (must sign waiver).
• Spectator Zones: Designated warming tents near finish; free hot soup for volunteers and families.
• Volunteer Perks: Complimentary race T‑shirt, free entry to the post‑race celebration, and a “Volunteer of the Day” certificate.

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Post‑Race Recovery tips

1. Immediate Warm‑Up:

• 5‑minute gentle jog or brisk walk to re‑circulate blood.
• Stretch major muscle groups (hamstrings, calves, quads).
• Nutrition:
• 30 g protein + 50 g carbs within 30 min (e.g., turkey sandwich + fruit).
• Re‑hydrate with warm water + electrolytes (avoid iced drinks).
• Cold‑Therapy:
• Apply compressive sleeves on calves for 15 min to reduce inflammation.
• Sleep: Aim for 8 hours of uninterrupted sleep; consider a warming foot blanket.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Question	Answer
What if a runner drops out due to cold?	Race staff will escort the runner back to the nearest aid station, provide a thermal blanket, and arrange transport to the community center.
Can I bring my own nutrition?	Yes, but all external food must be placed in the provided biodegradable bag at the start line.
Is there a cut‑off time?	15 km - 2 hours 30 min; 30 km - 5 hours. No extensions on snow date.
do I need a medical clearance?	Runners over 45 with known cardiac or respiratory conditions should consult a physician; a signed clearance may be requested at registration.
Are pets allowed on the trail?	No, for safety and wildlife protection. Service animals are permitted with prior notice.

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