The Foot Levelers Blue Ridge Marathon Series has earned its title as "America's Toughest Road Marathon" by challenging runners with over 7,430 ft. in elevation change in the full marathon, more than any other road marathon in the U.S. The Double Marathoners get a double dose of this elevation, for a total of over 14,860 feet of elevation change. This race is the ONLY marathon that runs along the famously scenic Blue Ridge Parkway, and proceeds from this non-profit event benefit the parkway and a dozen local charities every year. The double marathon runners start early and do the full marathon course once before starting with the main field for their second lap through the challenging course. All runners are rewarded with free socks, unique finishers' medals, shirts and local craft beer at the festival-like finish in downtown Roanoke.