Run the Tunnel

Run the Tunnel is a 3.8-mile road-and-trail race held annually in Natural Tunnel State Park, Duffield, Virginia, starting at 9:00 a.m. Positioned between a 5K and a longer trail race, it offers an accessible challenge for newer runners while deviating from a standard road-race format. The State of Franklin Track Club and the Scott County Chamber of Commerce organize the event, which is included in the track club’s King & Queen and Trail Series competitions. The course utilizes the park's natural setting, distinguishing it from a typical city loop. Awards are presented to overall male and female winners, as well as Masters, Grandmasters, and Senior Grandmasters. Age-group awards are given three deep for categories from 19-and-under to 80-and-over. Instead of standard medals or trophies, awards reflect the race theme; one recent edition featured handmade zebra-print seat covers for a "You’ve Earned Your Stripes" theme. All participants receive a race shirt, and the affordable entry fee aligns with the event's local, club-run tradition.