On June 19, 2026, New River Gorge Trail Festival takes place at New River Gorge National Park in Fayetteville, West Virginia. The event offers multiple distances to suit different training goals: a 5K, half marathon, 16.2-mile option, and 50K ultra. Races begin at 7:00 PM. Entry fees range from $30 to $160 depending on distance selected. The festival provides trail running options within the national park setting, making it suitable for runners training across a spectrum of distances, from those building base fitness to experienced ultramarathoners preparing for longer efforts.
From the Race Organizer
An Epic Adventure Through America's Newest National Park! Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of New River Gorge National Park with this extraordinary trail race! Starting in the charming town of Fayetteville, West Virginia, the course winds through the heart of the National Park, taking you deep into the forest and along trails that showcase stunning views of the river gorge, hundreds of feet below. With significant elevation gain, these challenging yet rewarding routes promise an unforgettable experience for runners seeking adventure and spectacular scenery. After crossing the finish line, extend your journey by exploring the diverse activities and iconic sights the New River Gorge National Park has to offer—making it a perfect destination for both athletes and outdoor enthusiasts! Start Times 5K Start - 7:00 PM on Friday Half Marathon Start - 7:00 AM on Saturday 50K Start 7:00 AM on Saturday Packet Pickup FRIDAY 4:00 PM to 7:30 PM – at Town Park (Park Drive, Fayetteville, WV) SATURDAY 6:00 – 6:50 AM – at Fayetteville PK-8 Track Drop Bags All drop bags must be labeled with name and phone number. There will be a spot at packet pickup where you can leave your drop bags before the race. All drop bags will be brought back to the finish. Drop bags are available at the following aid stations: Aid Station 1 - Kaymoor Top - Miles 3.5 & 13.3 Aid Station 3 - Fayette Station Rd. - Miles 9.5 & 27.2 Elevation 5K ~ (400 ft. of elevation gain) Half Marathon ~ 1400 ft. of elevation gain) 50K ~ (3,200 ft. of elevation gain) Aid Stations Half Marathon Aid Station 1 - Kaymoor Top - Mile 3.5 (crew access) Aid Station 2 - Craig Branch - Mile 6 (no crew access) Aid Station 3 - Fayette Station Rd. - Mie 9.5 (crew access) 50K Aid Station 1 - Kaymoor Top - Miles 3.5 & 13.3 (crew access) Aid Station 2 - Craig Branch - Miles 6 & 15.7, 23.6 (no crew access) Aid Station 3 - Fayette Station Rd. - Miles 9.5 & 27.2 (crew access)
Hotels Near This Race
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New River Gorge Trail Festival 2026 — Fayetteville, WV
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Race Travel Insurance
Don't forget travel insurance for June 19.
You've trained for months and booked a trip to Fayetteville, WV.
A pre-race injury, a delayed flight, or a family emergency can derail the whole thing.
Travel insurance can help cover your race entry fee, hotel, and flights if you can't make it,
and may cover medical costs if something goes wrong on the course. Plans typically only run
5-7% of your total trip cost — and running events are covered under standard plans with no
additional coverage needed.
Trip cancellation up to 100% of prepaid costs
Running events covered under standard plans — no add-ons needed
Trip interruption up to 150% of non-refundable costs
When is New River Gorge Trail Festival 2026 — Fayetteville, WV?
New River Gorge Trail Festival 2026 — Fayetteville, WV takes place on June 19, 2026. The race is held in Fayetteville, West Virginia.
Where is New River Gorge Trail Festival 2026 — Fayetteville, WV held?
New River Gorge Trail Festival 2026 — Fayetteville, WV is held at New River Gorge National Park in Fayetteville, West Virginia.
Where can I find hotels near New River Gorge Trail Festival 2026 — Fayetteville, WV?
RaceHotelFinder shows hotels sorted by distance from the race venue in Fayetteville. Use the map or list view on this page to compare options and book race weekend accommodation.
