The 2026 New River Trail Races will take place on April 11, 2026, in Fries, Virginia, within New River Trail State Park. The event features a flat, 100% dirt course that follows the New River and Chestnut Creek, offering runners a scenic and challenging trail experience. The weather on the event day is expected to be mild, with temperatures ranging between 45Β°F and 60Β°F and mostly clear skies. Participants will have the opportunity to compete in various distances, including 100k, 50k, 25k, 10k, and a free untimed 5k. The races will follow an out-and-back format, with start times ranging from 4:00 AM to 9:30 AM. The event emphasizes sustainability, with cupless aid stations requiring runners to bring their own bottles or cups.
What is the event format and race rules?
βThe event is a trail race with a 100% dirt surface, entirely along the New River and Chestnut Creek within New River Trail State Park.
βAll distances follow an out-and-back format.
βThe race is cupless, meaning runners must carry their own bottle or cup to aid stations.
βDrop bags are available for 50k and 100k runners only, with specific drop-off and retrieval times.
What distances are available for this event?
β100k race starting at 4:00 AM with a 8:00 PM cutoff
β50k race starting at 8:00 AM with a 5:00 PM cutoff
β25k race starting at 8:30 AM with a 5:00 PM cutoff
β10k race starting at 8:30 AM with a 5:00 PM cutoff
βFree untimed 5k race starting at 9:30 AM with a 5:00 PM cutoff
What is the schedule for race start times?
β100k: 4:00 AM start (8:00 PM cutoff)
β50k: 8:00 AM start (5:00 PM cutoff)
β25k: 8:30 AM start (5:00 PM cutoff)
β10k: 8:30 AM start (5:00 PM cutoff)
βFree untimed 5k: 9:30 AM start (5:00 PM cutoff)
βEarly start option for 25k and 50k runners at 7:30 AM
What is included in registration?
βParticipants in the 100k race will receive a commemorative buckle upon finishing.
βRace shirts are included for registrations made before April 1, 2026.
βThe Virginia State Parks day-use fee of $7 per vehicle is required for parking and covers all park locations for the day.
What are the aid station details?
β50k and 100k aid stations are located at miles 2, 5, 11.82, 15.94, 20.06, and 25.73.
β25k aid stations are located at miles 2, 5, 7.5, 10, and 13 (using the same stations as 50k).
β10k aid stations are located at miles 2 and 4.2.
βAll aid stations are stocked with electrolyte drink, water, Coke, PB&J, salty snacks, candy, fruit, and hot foods at select locations.
What are the drop bag guidelines?
βDrop bags for 50k and 100k runners must be dropped off at the Start/Finish area by 7:15 AM (50k) or 3:45 AM (100k).
βBags are delivered to the Cliffview turnaround and must be clearly marked with the runnerβs name and bib number.
βDrop bags are returned to the finish area by 4:00 PM.
βForgotten or abandoned bags cannot be mailed and will be recycled, donated, or disposed of after 6:00 PM.
What are the packet pick-up times?
βPacket pick-up for all distances is available on Friday from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at the Start/Finish area.
βRace day packet pick-up times:
β’ 100k: 3:00β3:45 AM
β’ 50k: 6:30β7:45 AM
β’ 10k: 6:30β8:15 AM
β’ 25k and 5k: 6:30β8:45 AM
What gear is required or recommended?
βHeadlamps or flashlights are required for 100k participants.
βHeadlamps or flashlights are recommended for 50k runners, especially for bib pick-up and navigating the grassy, dimly lit parking area.
What is the registration and refund policy?
βNo refunds of entry fees are available.
βDistance transfers are allowed up to the day before the race, with no refund for downgrading and a fee for upgrading.
βBib transfers to another runner are permitted for same-year use only.
βDeferral or rollover is allowed for medical conditions, including pregnancy and post-partum.
What is the event's weather consideration?
βThe event is scheduled for April 11, 2026, in Fries, Virginia.
βThe expected weather conditions are mild, with temperatures ranging between 45Β°F and 60Β°F and mostly clear skies.
βRunners should prepare for varying weather conditions and bring appropriate gear.
What are the event's amenities and facilities?
βThe event is held in New River Trail State Park, with a focus on sustainability and environmental responsibility.
βThe race is cupless, requiring runners to bring their own bottles or cups to aid stations.
βParking is located across a grassy field with limited lighting, and a Virginia State Parks day-use fee of $7 per vehicle is required.
β Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When is 2026 New River Trail Races?
A: The event takes place on 11 April 2026.
Q: Where is the event held?
A: The event is held in Fries, United States.
Q: What distances are available?
A: Available distances: 10 km, 25 km, 50 km, 100 km.