The 2026 Cabin Fever 50K will take place on February 21, 2026, in New River Gorge National Park, United States, with the start located in downtown Fayetteville, West Virginia, and the finish at Hawks Nest State Park. The event will occur during the depths of winter, with expected temperatures ranging from 10°F to 25°F, and potential for snow, wind, and icy conditions along the course. This 50K (31-mile) point-to-point trail ultra will challenge runners with rugged single-track paths, high-elevation ridgelines, and river corridors, offering a demanding yet scenic journey through the Appalachian terrain. The course will include sections along the New River, beneath the iconic New River Gorge Bridge, and through areas with technical trails and exposed ridges.
What is the distance of the 2026 Cabin Fever 50K?
→50K (31 miles)
What type of terrain will runners encounter?
→Rugged winter trail with single-track paths
→High-elevation ridgelines with winter views
→Descent to waterfalls
→Sections tracing the banks of the New River
→Technical trail, exposed ridges, and river-adjacent paths
Where is the start and finish of the event?
→Start: Downtown Fayetteville, West Virginia (in front of the Fayette County Courthouse)
→Finish: Hawks Nest State Park, West Virginia
What is the event capacity?
→300 runners (National Park Service limit)
What is the time limit for the event?
→10 hours (7:00 PM cutoff)
How many aid stations will be available along the course?
→4 fully stocked aid stations
Is there a shuttle service available?
→Yes, a free shuttle from Hawks Nest State Park (finish) to Fayetteville (start) is available on race morning, requiring advance registration by February 13, 2026
What are the registration tiers and their costs?
→$150 through November 5
→$175 November 6 – February 10, 2026
When does registration open?
→October 5, 2025 at 9:00 PM EST
Is there a guarantee for race shirts?
→Yes, for registrants by December 21, 2025
What is the refund policy?
→100% refundable until December 21, 2025; deferrals considered case-by-case for major life events
What is the race weekend schedule?
→Friday, February 20: Check-in & prize raffle (4:00–6:15 PM) and pre-race meeting (6:15 PM) at ACE Adventure Resort, Lost Paddle Bar & Grill
→Saturday, February 21: Race-day check-in (7:30–8:30 AM) at ACE Adventure Gear in Fayetteville; 9:00 AM start
What is included in the registration?
→Access to the event course
→Aid stations along the route
→Shuttle service (if registered in advance)
→Race shirt (if registered by December 21, 2025)
→Custom medal for all finishers
What awards are given to participants?
→Awards to top 10 male and female finishers
→All finishers receive a custom medal
What is the weather like in New River Gorge National Park on February 21, 2026?
→Expected temperatures: 10°F to 25°F
→Potential for snow, wind, and icy conditions
What is the relationship between the Cabin Fever 50K and the Rim to River 100?
→The course shares significant portions with the Rim to River 100
What organization benefits from the event proceeds?
→Adventure Appalachia, a nonprofit expanding outdoor access for youth and adults in the New River Gorge region
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When is 2026 Cabin Fever 50K?
A: The event takes place on 21 February 2026.
Q: Where is the event held?
A: The event is held in New River Gorge, United States.
