The Big Schloss

The Big Schloss

The Big Schloss is a single clockwise loop trail event held on Sat Sep 26, 2026 in the George Washington National Forest on the West Virginia side of the Virginia border, south of Wardensville and west of Woodstock. The course covers 33.3 miles with a total ascent and descent of 6,150 feet. The start and finish are at Trout Pond Picnic Pavilion A in the Trout Pond Recreation Area.

The route mixes single-track trails and some dirt roads. The course includes the ascent of Big Schloss about two thirds into the loop, which offers panoramic 360 degree views of surrounding ridges and valleys. There are three staffed aid stations located at Bucktail Trail Head (8.1 miles), Stony Creek Trail Head (18.8 miles), and Wolf Gap (24.7 miles). GPX and course maps are provided for navigation.

Entry opens on Monday August 3, 2026 at 9:00 am and entry is limited to 60 runners; a waitlist will be developed if the event fills. In the event tradition, runners are asked to bring a food or drink item to contribute to the common aid. The run finishes at Picnic Pavilion A where organizers provide grilling for participants, and Trout Pond campground adjacent to the recreation area is commonly used by participants for camping.

The event takes place in remote terrain. No medical personnel or medical supplies are provided on course or at aid stations. Runners are responsible for their own health and safety and should plan accordingly. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.