Prepare for a challenging yet incredibly rewarding trail experience at the Rattlerock Ultra, set amidst the stunning Coopers Rock State Forest in Morgantown, WV, on July 25, 2026. Offering both a 50K and a 25K distance, this premier ultra event in Northern West Virginia is renowned for its demanding "More Gain, More Pain" philosophy, especially for the 50K which boasts almost 6,000 feet of elevation gain. Typical race day conditions in late July see highs around 85F and lows around 65F, with a modest 17% chance of precipitation, making for a true summer trail test.

The Rattlerock Ultra course navigates through the lush, vibrant woods above 2000 feet, featuring an approximate 7.9-mile loop repeated two or four times depending on your chosen distance. Runners will encounter an "extremely rocky and technical" first mile with boulders and winding hills, flowing into tunnels of rhododendron and towering rock cliffs. Expect a diverse landscape including clear bubbling streams, open meadows, steep climbs, gradual descents, and a serene lake, all making for a non-PR course ideal for experienced runners seeking a summer challenge. With 95% of the course on unpaved trails, the focus is squarely on natural beauty and raw trail running.

Beyond the challenging terrain, the Rattlerock Ultra is celebrated for its friendly and energetic atmosphere, powered by authentic Appalachian trail runners. You'll find abundant encouragement with high-fives from volunteers and supportive race directors, all while "THE DRUM BEATS FOR YOU!" deep in the woods, guiding you to the finish line. The 50K features eight well-supported aid stations, while the 25K has four. Finishers can look forward to earning "very rad" sunglasses and enjoying a post-race pizza party, capping off an unforgettable day on the trails of Coopers Rock.