2027 New River Gorge Trail Festival
New River Gorge Trail Festival half marathon runs through America's newest national park.
Expected Race Date
~Jun 2027
Date not yet announced — this is when the race usually runs.
Location
Fayetteville, WV
Quick facts
- Date
- around June 2027 (expected)
- Location
- Fayetteville, West Virginia
- Distance
- Half marathon (13.1 mi)
- Course
- Loop Course
- Terrain
- Trail
- USATF certified
- Not listed
Highlights
Good For
Atmosphere
Course
The Experience
The New River Gorge Trail Festival half marathon is a rugged, scenic romp through the newest national park in the United States. Starting in the small town of Fayetteville, West Virginia, the course plunges into the forested heart of New River Gorge National Park, climbing 1,400 feet along singletrack trails that offer dizzying views of the river gorge hundreds of feet below. It's a challenging, rewarding course that draws a tight-knit field of about 211 runners from 24 states each year.
Though only in its fifth edition, the race is already earning a reputation for its stunning setting and well-organized support. The atmosphere is low-key and community-focused, with a premium performance shirt as swag, and aid stations stocked at strategic points. With the gorge's dramatic cliffs and dense forest, this is a destination-worthy half for trail runners seeking an authentic adventure in a national park.
Race-provided description
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 FridayHalf Marathon Start - 7:00 AM on Saturday50K Start 7:00 AM on Saturday Packet Pickup TBA Drop Bags All drop bags must be labeled with name and phone number. There will be a …
Logistics
Race Day
around June 2027 (expected)
Start Time
TBA
Start Location
New River Gorge National Park, Fayetteville, WV, 25840
Course Info
Course Type
Loop Course
Terrain
trail
Scenery
Forest, Mountain
Surface
Dirt Trail
Difficulty
Hilly
Quality Score
Solid Pick445 years running
~211 finishers a year
growing or steady
5% returning runners
5 timing sources
runners from 24 states
winner 1:46:31
typical high 81°F
Frequently asked
When is the 2027 New River Gorge Trail Festival?
The 2027 New River Gorge Trail Festival hasn't announced its next date yet, but it typically takes place around June 2027 (expected).
Where does the 2027 New River Gorge Trail Festival take place?
It takes place in Fayetteville, West Virginia.
What distances does the 2027 New River Gorge Trail Festival offer?
The half marathon (13.1 miles).
Is the 2027 New River Gorge Trail Festival course flat and good for a PR?
The 2027 New River Gorge Trail Festival is a hilly, loop course course.
HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.
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