+ What kind of "race" is this, exactly?

Technically, yes — it’s a race. But really, it’s more of a laid-back, untimed, snack-filled adventure where you can take your time, grab photos, and actually enjoy yourself. If you’re feeling competitive, go for it — we do recognize the top male and female finishers (overall and Masters 50+). Everyone else can just enjoy the miles, the trail, and the snacks.

+ Is this a charity event?

Yes — and that’s a huge part of what makes this race special. Each year, we donate $10 from every paid entry, 25% of sponsorship funds, and 100% of raffle proceeds to several local charities including Sheetz For the Kidz®, which supports children in need right here in King George County. While most of our giving goes to Sheetz For the Kidz, we also support a few other great local causes. Curious? You can find the full list on our Giving Back page.

+ How fit do I need to be?

It’s 14 miles — so you’ll want to do more than a single jog around the block. If you regularly run 10Ks or half marathons, you’ll be fine. If your cardio routine mainly involves chasing the ice-cream truck, maybe train up and join us next year.

+ Can I walk or ruck the course?

Yes! We enthusiastically support both walkers and the rucking community. The cutoff time allows plenty of margin for ruckers to complete the course at a moderate 19-minute pace. Many participants mix in walking and still finish comfortably. Just don’t spend too long at the s’mores station — we’ve seen it happen.

+ Is there a cut-off time?

Yes — the race starts at 8:00 a.m. and wraps up by 12:30 p.m., giving you over four hours to finish. After that, we pack up the gear, and our bike support volunteers ride off into the weekend.

+ Will my time be recorded?

Nope. This is and will always be an untimed fun run — no chips, no pressure, no spreadsheets. Bring your own watch if you’re curious, but we’re more about high-fives than finish times.

+ Can I bring a stroller?

Sorry, no. The trail includes dirt, rocks, sand, roots, and a few obstacles that would make your stroller cry. The only wheeled exception: Ainsley’s Angels adaptive racing chairs with trail tires.

+ So how does this work? I wish you had a tidy graphic to sum up the whole event and its logistics.

We do! Check out our event schematic which succinctly covers the what, where, when, how of the event.

+ Can my dog run with me?

We love dogs, but unfortunately our insurance company doesn’t, and they strictly prohibit their participation. Only trained service animals are allowed on race day. Feel free to bring your furry friend back to the trail on a non-race day — just keep them leashed and off the snack tables.

+ Where do I park?

The King George Gateway Shopping Center in Dahlgren serves as the main event parking area, especially for those taking the pre-race shuttle to the start line. If you’re arranging your own transportation, that’s fine too — you may want to leave a car across the street from the start at King George Middle School for easier logistics. Regardless, please do not park at either Sheetz location or at O’Reilly Auto Parts. (Reference: Parking Map) 

+ I'm coming from out-of-town - where should I stay?

Welcome! Several hotels are within walking distance of the finish area, including MyPlace and Holiday Inn Express (the newest and closest). Three more hotels sit just across the highway. While we don’t have an official room block, there’s usually plenty of availability.

+ How much does it cost?

Registration is $70 — still below the industry average for a point-to-point trail race with this much fun (and this many snacks). The optional race shirt is just $10, because we know most runners already own enough race tees to start a King-size quilt.

+ Is there a cap on runners?

Yep — we’re limited to 400 runners. When those spots are gone, that’s it. No late adds, no bribes, no “my cousin knows the race director” exceptions.    

+ Where do I register?

Online registration opens midnight Black Friday (i.e., 12:00 a.m. Friday) on RunSignup. You can go there directly or click the Registration link in the menu.  Registration opens midnight on Black Friday and usually sells out before lunch, so maybe set an alarm (or two).

+ It sold out! Now what?

Hang tight — a waitlist automatically opens in RunSignup when the race fills. We’ll pull names from that list to fill deferrals and unclaimed sponsor bibs.

+ Is there packet pickup before race day?

Yes! Dates, times, and locations will be posted on our RunSignup race page as we get closer to April.

+ Will there be a bag drop?

Absolutely — and it’s sponsored by our friends at Bayside Ford. The Bayside Ford Bag Drop lets you hand over a clearly labeled bag at the start line. We’ll tag it for you, transport it to the finish, and have it waiting by the time you cross the line.

+ Where can I see who's registered?

Click Find A Participant on the RunSignup page to see who's in.

+ What if it rains or snows?

We’re a rain-or-shine race — we even ran through what meteorologists affectionately called a “bomb cyclone” in 2022. Check out the photo gallery to see hundreds of soaked, smiling runners conquering the elements and questioning their life choices. Only heavy ice or deep snow would delay things, and we’d announce any updates by email and social media.

+ Turns out I can't make it - what are my options?

We get it - things happen. We can’t offer refunds (we spend your money on very important things like pie and pretzels), but you have options:

• 🩹 Race Insurance: Offered during registration by an independent third-party provider. It can reimburse you for certain cancellations, but all claims go through them — not us or RunSignup.
• 🔁 Transfers: Allowed up until race week. You’ll receive a full refund (minus a $10 transfer fee) once another runner takes your spot. Instructions are on the RunSignup page.
• ⏭️ Deferrals: You can defer your entry to next year for a $20 fee up until two weeks before race day. You’ll get a special registration link or code for the following year. (Note: add-ons like shirts don’t carry over.)

+ Can I change or cancel my shirt selectioin after registering?

Yes — as long as it’s before the shirt order deadline. Log into RunSignup → My Registrations → Manage → Race Jersey → Edit → Save. If you skipped the shirt and now regret it, you can still grab one later through the online store or at the finish line merch tent.

+ What does "cupless" even mean?

It means we’ve kicked single-use cups and bottles to the curb. Every runner gets a reusable HydraPak SpeedCup — lightweight, collapsible, top-rack dishwasher safe, and ready for years of race adventures. Each holds about 7 ounces of your favorite hydration.

+ Why go cupless?

Being a cupless event enables us lessen our race footprint by reducing waste and keeping our trails clean and pristine! By ditching disposables, we'll keep over 2,000 single-use cups and bottles out of the King George landfill each year. Trails > Trash!

+ How does it all work on race day?

• We’ll distribute HydraPak SpeedCups at the start line at the last minute -- so no one will lose or forget them.
• Keep it handy — there are four aid stations at miles 3.14, 6.2, 10.2, and 12.5, plus hydration at the start and finish.
• Water is available at all locations, and Dr. Raindrop, our locally crafted electrolyte drink, will be offered at the start, finish, mile 6.2, and mile 12.5.
• Volunteers will fill your cup using pitchers, or you can self-serve. Have your cup ready before you reach the table to keep the line moving faster than your average 10K split.

+ What if I lose or forget my SpeedCup?

We’ll have a very limited stash of extras at the aid stations. Please use the honor system and pay $5 for a replacement at the finish-line merch tent. These cups aren’t cheap, so we trust runners to do the right thing (and you always do).

+ How do I carry it while running?

Your SpeedCup weighs about as much as a donut crumb (10 g) and has a handy finger loop. Clip it to a carabiner, tuck it in your waistband, or twirl it dramatically between sips — your call.

+ Can I use my own hydration gear

Yes, you may carry your own hydration, whether in a hand-held running bottle, hydration vest or pack, growler, or some other container.

+ Those cups are cool and useful! Can I buy an extra?

Sure, we'll have extras available for purchase for $5 at the finish line merch tent on race day.

+ So you really won't have any disposable cups?

Nope. For reals.

+ Where does it startand finish??

The run starts at the King George Middle School Sheetz (Store #573, 8206 Kings Highway, King George, Virginia) and finishes at the Dahlgren Sheetz (Store #259, 17188 Owens Drive). The first 1.4 miles will be on roads where traffic is directed by a certified traffic management firm as well as law enforcement officers. After the short road section, you’ll hop onto the Dahlgren Railroad Heritage Trail (DRHT) for the remaining 12.6 miles — a peaceful, flat, tree-lined stretch that feels made for runners and snack stops alike.

+ Are there bathroom facilities?

Yes! At the start line, you'll have restrooms inside Sheetz and O'Reilly Auto Parts next door as well as additional porta-potties near the starting corral. We'll also have porta-potties at the campsite aid station at mile 6.2 and the Pretzel Stop aid station at mile 12.5. At the finish, Sheetz restrooms will be available. If that's not enough, you'll have miles of nature at your disposal, no pun intended.

+ Is the course marked and traffic-controlled?

Yes and yes. The road portion at the start is managed by law enforcement officers and a certified traffic management firm. Once on the trail, you’ll find dozens of fun and informative signs to keep you smiling and on course. There’s one short, well-marked detour at mile 12, then it’s a straight shot to Dahlgren. Pro tip: if you somehow get lost on a perfectly straight rail trail, you overthought something. If contemplating an unmarked turn, just remember trains can't make sharp turns, so the rail trail can't either.

+ What's the trail surface like?

Mostly packed dirt and gravel, with a few short stretches of pea gravel and 2-inch rocks that keep things interesting (and occasionally earn colorful survey comments). Luckily, those rocky bits are short and infrequent. It’s still a rail trail, so there’s nearly no elevation change — just the occasional root, limb, railroad tie, or puddle waiting to add character to your stride.

+ What will I see along the way?

The DRHT meanders through farmland, wetlands, and forest, offering plenty of wildlife and history along the way. Watch for bald eagles, deer, and foxes, plus WWII-era signal boxes and old concrete whistle-stop signs left from its military-railroad days.

+ Where are the aid stations?

Hydration, snacks, and good vibes await at:

• Mile 3.14 (Pi Station): Pie & Water
• Mile 6.2 (Campsite): S’mores, Peeps, Rice Krispies Treats, Water, and Dr. Raindrop Electrolyte Drink
• Mile 10.2 (Meadows Neighborhood): Fruit Snacks & Water
• Mile 12.5 (Little Ark Church): Homemade Soft Pretzel Nuggets, Water, and Dr. Raindrop

Hydration is also available at the start and finish. For more, see the course map.

+ Do I need a permit to use the trail?

You’re covered on race day under our event permit. Outside of the race, the DRHT requires a free personal permit, which takes about 60 seconds to request here. (Our lawyers made us say that. They also said to remind you this activity is not sponsored or endorsed by King George County. They’re a riot at parties.)

+ Where does it end?

The finish line is located behind the Dahlgren Sheetz (Store #259, 17188 Owens Drive). As you approach the finish, you’ll make a sharp turn around the back of the store, where the finish-line archway, cheering volunteers, and smell of fresh coffee await.

+ What happens at the finish?

Cross under the archway and soak it all in — you’ve just completed 14 miles of pie-fueled glory! We reserve the best volunteer job of all — greeting runners and handing out finisher swag — for active-duty military personnel from the nearby Navy base. It’s our small tribute to King George’s proud military history and the vital role of the base in our community.

As they congratulate you on your finish, take a moment to thank them for their service. 🇺🇸

+ What do finishers receive?

Forget the drawer medal. You’ll earn swag you’ll actually use:

• A Sheetz insulated travel mug - first fill of Sheetz Bros. coffee is free! ☕
• MTO food and drink vouchers for your post-run refueling
• A custom sweat towel, snacks, and a drawstring bag to haul it all home
• Surprise goodies from our generous sponsors

After collecting your swag, visit the photo booth where fun props and themed backdrops await — the perfect spot for your triumphant, doughnut-in-hand moment. From there, head to the Sheetz-to-Sheetz Store under the tent for more snacks, merch, and opportunities to support our charity partners.

+ Is there food at the finish?

Of course - it's a Sheetz-sponsored event! 🍩 You’ll find fruit, doughnuts, snacks, and drinks under the finisher tent. Fill your new travel mug with Sheetz Bros. coffee, then use your Made-To-Order (MTO) vouchers to order something fresh inside Sheetz.

Still hungry? You can stroll the 0.25-mile connector trail to the King George Gateway Shopping Center, where several restaurants will gladly feed your post-race appetite.

+ Are there prizes or an award ceremony?

Yes — and new this year, we’re hosting a short award ceremony at 10:30 a.m. at the finish line! There we’ll recognize the race “winners” (though you’re all winners in our book). Expect cheers, laughs, and maybe a little confetti. Top male and female finishers (overall and Masters 50+) will receive:

• A custom trophy
• A $75 Lucky Road Run Shop gift card
• A $75 Creekside Farm Brewery gift card

Remember, this is an untimed fun run — results are based on who crosses first and dependent upon the race director's failing eyesight.

+ What's the raffle about?

Our finish-line raffle raises additional funds for Sheetz For the Kidz®, supporting local children in need. 100% of ticket sales go directly to the charity. Each registered runner earns one free raffle ticket that is automatically entered during registration, with the option to buy extra tickets during registration only (so stock up early if you’re feeling lucky!).

We’ll have over a half dozen terrific prizes donated by our sponsors — everything from a Sheetz shopping spree to a full car detail valued at over $200! Raffle winners will be drawn and announced by the finish line announcer. You do not have to be present to win, but being there does make the cheering louder. 🎉

+ How do I get back to my car or hotel?

If you parked at King George Gateway Shopping Center's event parking or are staying at a nearby hotel, it’s an easy 0.25-mile walk along a marked trail from the finish area. Prefer to ride in style? Look for the Bayside Ford Courtesy Shuttle near the finish. They’ll gladly deliver you (and your new mug) back to your car. Just look for the Shuttle flag near the finish line.

Remember, no transportation is provided to the start line Sheetz after the race -- the only runner transport occurs pre-race from event parking near the finish to the start. (Reference: Parking Map)