Top West Virginia Marathons & Races for Every Skill Level
Traverse through lush forests, compete in strenuous, high-elevation marathons, or maybe relax a bit for a less-stressful fun run. Either way, it’s time to explore West Virginia via running race. With road races among marvelous backdrops and others that benefit a cause, there’s plenty to choose from. There is a place for everyone at West Virginia’s best road races.
Gristmill Grinder, Clifftop, WV
This 5K race on an unpaved trail is one of the most popular in the area. Runners have been running this fun course with an elevation of just over 2,700 feet since 2005. There are breathtaking views along the Middle Earth-like landscape and participants will need to keep focused on finishing the race.
The Frozen Sasquatch, Charleston, WV
This 25K and 50K race is limited to the first 200 entrants, so make sure to register early for this run through the Kanawha State Forest near Charleston. In addition to prizes for place finishers, qualified participants will receive a shirt for that year's race.
Highlands Sky Trail Run, Davis, WV
Considered the ultimate ultra run, the Highlands Sky Trail Run covers a course through the breathtaking Canaan Valley Resort State Park and the Monongahela National Forest. The race is limited to 200 participants who must be over 18 to run, and there is a 12-hour limit to finish the course.
West Virginia Trilogy, Horton, WV
Described as a triptych of runs across the Eastern Continental Divide, this three-day, 50-mile course is run through the Monongahela National Forest and begins in the small town of Horton. This is a very challenging course with points that go through dense underbrush, across rivers, and over steep inclines. This is definitely not for the faint of heart.
Run to Read Half Marathon, Fairmont, WV
Over 15 miles of blacktop and crushed limestone, the Run to Read Marathon in Fairmont is sponsored by the Literacy Volunteers of Marion County and all proceeds go to support literacy in the county. If you're looking to run for a great cause, be one of the first 200 applicants to register.
This Race is for the Birds, Shepherdstown, WV
The Potomac Valley Audubon Society sponsors this annual family-friendly race to promote educational and natural history programs for children. Races include a 5K and 10K race and a one-mile fun run for children under 10 years of age.
