Embrace the Adventure: The Return of the New River Gorge Trail Festival

The above video features the 2022 New River Gorge Trail Festival.

As the call of the outdoors beckons, adventure enthusiasts from around the country are gearing up for an unforgettable experience: the 4th Annual New River Gorge Trail Festival. Nestled within the stunning vistas of the New River Gorge National Park in West Virginia, this trail race promises participants an exhilarating journey through rugged terrain and breathtaking scenery.

New: Live Interactive Map Tracking this year!

Scheduled to kick off in the evening on Friday, June 21, this year’s festival brings with it an exciting new addition – live interactive map tracking with RaceJoy. This addition will allow spectators, crew, and participants to track their progress in real-time, enhancing the overall race experience.

Race Distances for Everyone!

But it’s not just about the technology; it’s about immersing oneself in the unparalleled beauty of America’s newest national park. With courses tailored to various skill levels, including the challenging 50k, the scenic Half Marathon, and the point-to-point 5k, there’s something for everyone seeking adventure amidst nature’s splendor.

Participants at the 2023 New River Gorge Trail Festival run by Wolf Creek Falls as they make their way to the Fayette Station Road Aid Station.

For those brave enough to take on the 50k, they’ll embark on a challenging yet rewarding journey through rhododendron tunnels, high passages along the gorge rim, and historic forests, all while climbing nearly 3,500 feet of elevation. The Half Marathon follows the first loop of the 50k course. Meanwhile, the 5k promises to be an adventurous, point-to-point run under the longest single-span arch bridge in the Western Hemisphere, with elevation gains and losses adding an extra layer of excitement.

Commemorative New River Gorge Trail Festival Swag!

As participants conquer the trails, they’ll be rewarded with more than just stunning views. Each finisher will receive a short sleeve performance shirt, a custom-crafted finisher medal, a commemorative race bib, and a New River Gorge Trail Festival sticker, serving as tangible mementos of their accomplishment.

Spend a Weekend at New River Gorge National Park this Summer!

Whether you’re a seasoned trail runner seeking a new challenge or a nature enthusiast eager to explore the wonders of the New River Gorge National Park, the New River Gorge Trail Festival beckons you to embrace the adventure. Lace up your shoes, pack your sense of adventure, and get ready to experience the wild beauty of West Virginia like never before.

To learn more and to register for the New River Gorge Trail Festival, please visit the event website.