At 8:30 am, the 8k will start. Like the half marathon this race also start in Roanoke Rapids Lake Park off Oakwood Ave. The wide park road will allow for a smooth start and for runners to spread out before hitting the trails.
The Roanoke Canal Trail is not your normal trail. It is a flat trail that provides great footing for virtually the entire race.
The 8k course will traverse the Canal Trail for just under two and a half miles before making a loop and returning back on the same route you ran out on. Runners will be able to enjoy the fantastic views along the way running by things such as:
* the original culvert made of stacked stone that contains a stone tunnel.
* the remnants of a massive bulkhead used to generate power from the canal.
* the Roanoke Canal Museum
* wildlife on the trail
* the Roanoke River and multiple lakes
It truly is a quiet run through a piece of history. Runners will experience all of this while running under a canopy of trees, over several bridges, and through peaceful fields. The Roanoke Canal Trail is a true gem that most runners have yet to discover.
