2027 Dominion Riverrock James River Scramble

The James River Scramble is the trail-racing heart of Dominion Energy Riverrock, Richmond's outdoor festival. The course is a rugged mix of trail and pavement, starting on the south side of the James River and finishing on the north, with roots, gravel, rough terrain, and low-hanging branches keeping runners honest. It's not a course for walkers — wave starts and self-serve water stops at miles 1.7 and 4.2 mean you're expected to carry your own cup and keep moving.

With a median field of around 186 finishers and a recent edition drawing roughly 229, the Scramble is intimate but growing. About 28% of runners come back, and the field pulls from around 10 states, giving it a loyal, regional following. The typical winning time sits near 89 minutes, so while it's not a PR course, it rewards those who embrace the scramble.

This is a race where the river is your constant companion and the city's outdoor community turns out to cheer. Top three overall take home prizes, but the real reward is the finish on the north bank, mud-splattered and grinning.