Fall into Fall Trail 5k Run/Walk

The Fall into Fall Trail 5k Run/Walk is a 5K event held on the Mendota Trail in southwest Virginia. This route utilizes a rail-trail connecting Bristol and Mendota. It is a straightforward distance run/walk, not a technical mountain race, but its environment provides more character than a road 5K. The entire trail spans 12.5 miles, beginning with a paved half-mile from the Bristol trailhead before transitioning to fine gravel and chat. The Mendota Trail follows a former railroad right-of-way and features 17 restored trestles, including crossings over creeks and the North Fork of the Holston River. The trail ascends from Bristol, then descends through The Cut and Wolf Run Gorge towards Mendota, passing former railroad stops like Benhams, Phillips Switch, and Abrams Falls. The trail is used by runners, walkers, hikers, and cyclists. Its railroad history is evident; the line once handled passenger and freight service for 82 years, and its notable steam train was the Lonesome Pine Special.