Take The Full James River Rundown Challenge

At least 1,400 different climbers have climbed Mr. Everest...just a handful of people have paddled the entire length of the James River. Follow in the ripples of Andy Lee, Earl Swift, Ryan Williamson, Marty Cash and Russ Starke and take the Full James River Rundown challenge.

Modeled after the Appalachian Trail's "2000-Miler" recognition program for people who hike the full trail, the Full James River Rundown consists of paddling the entire length (approximately 340 miles) of the James River from its headwaters at Iron Gate to Fort Monroe at the mouth of the Chesapeake Bay. You can travel the river straight through or do it in sections. Take as long as you need. The rules are simple: one person (or go with a friend) on one river for the experience of a lifetime. Track your progress on our official Full Rundown chart. Full James River Rundowners receive an official certificate from JRA marking their achievement.

Above - Bill Street, JRA Executive Director, presents Mr. Earl Swift with the Full James River Rundown Certificate

Individuals who have received the Full James River Rundown Certificate:
Earl Swift, Ryan Williamson, Andy Lee, Marty Cash and Russ Starke

Marty Cash and Russ Starke's Full James River Rundown >>

In 2011 JRA led a team of highschool students and teachers that completed the full rundown of the James River in 28 days. These individuals received a Full James River Rundown Certificate in recognition of their success:

Are you willing to take the challenge?

The Full James River Rundown Application (PDF, 150kb)

Trip on James provides watershed moments
Richmond Times Dispatch, March 29, 2009

Runoff Rundown Guide Map

View James River Runnoff Rundown Map in a larger map