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Highball to Thurmond Ultra

Thurmond, United States • 17 May 2026

Event summary

The Highball to Thurmond Ultra & Relay takes place on May 17, 2026, in New River Gorge National Park, West Virginia. The event is a point-to-point trail race that finishes in Thurmond, WV. The course passes through national park trails, mountain dirt roads, and some paved road sections. Participants may return from the finish in Thurmond to the start area by train.

The event name refers to an early railroad signal meaning the track ahead was clear. Thurmond is noted in the event information as a small historic railroad town.

Race options and logistics

Available event options include:

  • 50 Mile
  • 50K
  • 50K Ruck
  • 50 Mile Relay
  • Virtual 50 Mile
  • Virtual 50K
  • 50 Mile Pacer

The 50 Mile course includes about 12 miles of paved road and a mix of dirt roads and trails with roughly 5,000 feet of elevation gain. The 50K course lists about 3,100 feet of elevation gain and is described as a daylight, point-to-point trail route starting at Hawks Nest State Park. The 50 Mile Relay can include teams of 2 to 4, with handoffs at official aid stations. Registration benefits noted include a finisher medal, a custom hoodie, race photos, awards, well-stocked aid stations, and an option to add a train ticket. Refund and transfer policies are specified on the event pages. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.

United States West Virginia Thurmond

Race information

Registration
50 mi
50 Mile Relay
50 mi
50 Mile Ultra
50 km
50k Ultra
Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
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