New River Gorge Rim to Rim Race
Lansing, United States • 2 May 2026
New River Gorge Rim to Rim Race
The New River Gorge Rim to Rim Race is a 6 mile road running event that crosses from one side of the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve to the other. Located in Fayetteville, West Virginia, the course takes participants from the south side of the gorge down to the river level and back up to the opposing rim.
The route follows Fayette Station Road (Route 82), Burma Road, and Ames Heights Road. Participants experience a significant change in elevation, consisting of a 1,300 foot descent followed by a 1,300 foot climb. The course includes a particularly steep section with a 20% incline. While the majority of the race takes place on paved roads, there is a short trail section at the finish.
Participants have the option to walk the course provided they maintain a pace of at least 20 minutes per mile to accommodate the road closure schedule. On the morning of the event, runners check in at the finish area located at the Adventures on the Gorge resort and are transported via bus to the starting line.
The event includes several participant amenities:
- 6 mile road and trail course
- Closed road environment
- Chip timing
- Water station along the route
- Bus transportation to the start
- Finisher medal and short sleeve t-shirt
- Post-race brunch at the rim-side pool
Proceeds from the race support free community physical activity programming, including youth run clubs and community leadership initiatives in Southern West Virginia. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.