New River Gorge Rim to Rim Race

Event overview

The New River Gorge Rim to Rim Race is a road running event on May 2, 2026, hosted by Active Southern West Virginia with a finish at Adventures on the Gorge. The course distance is 6 miles and includes a short trail section at the finish. The finish area is at the resort rim-side pool and registration includes a post-race catered brunch.

Course and logistics

The course begins on the south side of the New River Gorge on Fayette Station Road (Route 82), follows Burma Road and Ames Heights Road, crosses the New River, and returns to the opposite rim. Runners descend about 1,300 ft and then climb about 1,300 ft; the steepest grade on the course is reported as 20 percent. The event uses closed roads, includes a water station on route, and provides bus transportation from the finish area to the start line on race morning. Walkers are permitted but must maintain a 20-minute per mile pace to finish within the road closure window.

Registration, packet pickup, and awards

Registration is offered in tiered pricing periods with a last-minute packet-pickup option if space is available. Packet pickup is scheduled for the day before the race with additional pickup available the morning of the event. Chip timing, a finisher medal, and a short-sleeve t-shirt are listed as included items. Awards are given to top finishers in each age bracket in the running category only.

Location and purpose

The event takes place in the New River Gorge area near Fayetteville, West Virginia, with a listed location of 219 Chestnutburg Rd, Lansing, WV 25862. Proceeds support Active SWV community physical activity programs, including Kids Run Clubs. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.