Highball to Thurmond Ultra & Relay

Get ready for an unforgettable ultra marathon adventure at the Highball to Thurmond Ultra & Relay on May 17, 2026, in the stunning New River Gorge National Park, Fayetteville, WV. This point-to-point race, named after the historic railroad signal for "track ahead clear, proceed at full speed," invites runners, ruckers, and relay teams to experience the wild and wonderful West Virginia landscape. Typical race day conditions in mid-May bring comfortable highs around 72°F and lows around 52°F, with a 22% chance of precipitation, creating ideal running weather.

Participants can choose from a grueling 50-mile ultra, a scenic 50-kilometer (approximately 31-mile) ultra, or a 50-mile relay. The 50-mile course, starting in Montgomery, features about 12 miles of paved road mixed with mountain dirt roads and rugged trails, boasting approximately 5,000-6,000 feet of elevation gain and requiring strong climbing ability to navigate steep ascents and technical sections. The 50K event, beginning at Hawks Nest State Park, is a full daylight course with around 3,100 feet of elevation gain, known for its well-marked trails and being a manageable yet challenging option, even for first-time ultra-marathoners. The 50-mile relay allows teams of 2-4 to conquer the course in five legs, fostering camaraderie and a shared ultra experience.

All distances culminate in the historic railroad "ghost town" of Thurmond, West Virginia, where a vibrant finish line celebration awaits, complete with post-race food, awards, and a champagne toast. A unique highlight of this race is the opportunity to "race the Amtrak train" to the finish and, for many, to then board it for a scenic return journey to Montgomery, with the last call whistle blowing at 6:45 PM. The course itself delivers breathtaking scenery, including waterfalls, ridgelines, and historic rail bridges, ensuring a truly epic and memorable trail running experience supported by well-stocked aid stations and excellent communication from the organizers.