The Conquer the Cove 25k and Trail Marathon is the culminating event of the Mountain Junkies Roanoke Non Ultra Trail Series (RNUTS). It's held the last Sunday of May at Carvin's Cove, a scenic series of trails that border the reservoir, which acts as the Roanoke Valley's main water supply.

In its fifth year, Conquer the Cove has grown to attract those seeking a challenge before trying an ultra. This was my first year doing it. And while I was told to prepare for the challenges of the hills, I thought I would be fine. While I did finish, it was a much more challenging run than I believed.

The elevation profiles of the 25k and marathon are intense. Runners of the Blue Ridge Marathon will appreciate the climb in this race. For those who have run BRM, Roanoke Mountain and Peakwood, while challenging, pale in comparison to the Brushy Mountain climb. It keeps going, and going, and going.

Runners of the 25k hit Brushy Mountain around mile 8 and will climb for a good 2 miles to the top. The marathoners will endure the same climb at mile 16 (which is normally when I hit the wall. Can't imagine doing a climb at that point).

The course winds through several trails in and around Carvin's Cove before ending at Loch Haven Lake, a private swimming club located on a small lake. The lakeside finish is a great spot to cool your aching legs or take a full plunge. The 25k had four aid stations with water, Gatorade, and a few snacks. Other than those spots, runners are pretty much on their own through the trails.

The early start of 6:30 am means most of your running can be done before it gets too hot. There is a cutoff time for the marathon, but it's generous enough to let most anyone who's done a distance race before to finish.

The only downside I had about this race is the parking. Because it begins in a private club, parking is really limited. I carpooled with a friend and we were able to get a tight spot. The Mountain Junkies encourage carpooling in all of their pre-race communications so you know to plan ahead.

Other than that, it's a great course that's well managed and supported with volunteers. I highly recommend this race for those seeking to do a trail marathon with some challenging aspects to it.

Pics for the race can be found on the Mountain Junkies Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Mountain-Junkies-LLC/282116549071