Prepare for an epic adventure at the New River Gorge Trail Festival on June 20, 2026, in Fayetteville, West Virginia. This extraordinary event immerses runners in America's newest National Park, offering breathtaking views and challenging terrain across 50K and Half Marathon distances. Starting in the charming town of Fayetteville, the course immediately plunges into the heart of the New River Gorge National Park, delivering an unforgettable experience for those seeking both competition and unparalleled natural beauty.

The New River Gorge Trail Festival features routes with significant elevation gain that wind deep into the forest, showcasing stunning vistas of the river gorge hundreds of feet below. The Half Marathon, primarily on dirt and gravel trails, offers approximately 1400-2000 feet of elevation gain, treating runners to views of the iconic New River Gorge Bridge and Kaymoor Top. For the ultrarunners, the 50K is a demanding journey over two loops with a scenic out-and-back along the gorge rim, featuring nearly 5,000 feet of elevation gain and loss. Expect a mix of single-track, double-track, and forest service roads, with sections of rocks, roots, and potential mud, all predominantly shaded. Well-stocked aid stations, complete with refreshments and first aid, are strategically placed along the course, ensuring runners are supported on their challenging journey. Typical race day conditions in late June bring highs around 80F and lows around 56F, with a 23% chance of precipitation.

Runners consistently praise the New River Gorge Trail Festival for its "Wild and Wonderful" atmosphere and spectacular scenery, often stopping to capture photos of the waterfalls, rhododendron tunnels, and historic forests. Despite its challenging nature, with technical sections and significant climbs, the course is known for being well-marked. Beyond the finish line, which includes a custom medal and performance shirt, the festival encourages participants to explore the diverse activities and iconic sights of the New River Gorge National Park, making it a perfect destination for athletes and outdoor enthusiasts alike.