Logo

Willis River - Cumberland, VA

Cumberland, United States • 4 Jan 2026

Event details

The Willis River Fat Ass takes place Sunday, Jan 4, 2026, at Bear Creek Lake State Park in Cumberland, VA. The event offers the following distances:

  • 50K
  • 35K
  • 20K

Registration closes Sat, Jan 3 at 11:59 PM ET. The event is free to enter; runners are asked to bring prepackaged food to share. Donations are appreciated to help cover permit, insurance, and portajohn costs.

Course and logistics

The 35K route runs much of the Willis River Trail. The 50K comprises the 35K loop, a return to the start, and an added Bear Creek 10-mile portion. The 20K goes to the first aid station, then returns to the start. The course includes stream crossings, rolling hills, and is described as wet; participants should expect wet feet. The organizer provides water, marked course, and portajohns. The course can be hard to follow in places; participants are advised to backtrack to the last white blaze if they go off course. Prepackaged food only is requested for shared items; any items that would be touched by multiple people may be discarded. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.

United States Virginia Cumberland

Race information

Registration
50 km
50k
35 km
35k
20 km
20k
Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
Trail runs nearby

Pain Is Currency Backyard Ultra

Goochland

This backyard ultra adds a brutal twist: runners must complete a 4.167-mile loop every hour while carrying an extra pound each lap. The race goes on until only one person remains. It's a test of endurance where the load increases but the ti..

Freight Train Ultra Marathon

Farmville

A spring rail trail ultramarathon in Farmville VA offering 100K, 50K and a new half marathon, low total elevation, two crossings of High Bridge, handcrafted pottery awards, and various discounts and race options.

National Trails Day - Rice

Rice

Celebrate National Trails Day on a flat, scenic 5k course across the historic High Bridge. This event welcomes runners and walkers, with all proceeds supporting park programs. Every participant gets a hat, finishers earn a medal, and local..

Night Train 50K and Half Marathon

Farmville

An evening trail event on the High Bridge Trail near Farmville, VA offering 50K, Half Marathon, 5K and hiker and family options. The course follows an old rail trail, is chip timed, cupless, and requires runners to carry water.