About This Race
The New River Trail Races offer runners a unique ultra experience through Virginia's New River Trail State Park, following the historic pathway of the former Norfolk and Western Railway. Set entirely along the New River and Chestnut Creek, these races showcase the gentle beauty of southwestern Virginia's river valleys on a completely flat, 100% dirt surface. The out-and-back format allows runners to experience the full character of this converted rail-trail, which winds through pastoral farmland and alongside pristine waterways. What sets these races apart is their accessibility combined with scenic beauty. The zero elevation gain across all distances makes this an ideal venue for runners seeking fast times or those new to trail running who want to experience ultra distances without the intimidation of significant climbing. The multiple distance options, from 10K to 100K, all starting from the same location in Fries, create a festival atmosphere where runners of all abilities can share the trail.
The entire course follows the New River Trail State Park's converted railway bed, providing a smooth, well-maintained dirt surface throughout. Runners travel alongside the New River and Chestnut Creek, experiencing the tranquil waterways and surrounding forest canopy. As an out-and-back format, participants will retrace their steps, offering different perspectives of the same scenic corridor on the return journey.
Notable Features
The completely flat profile across all distances makes this one of the most accessible ultra events in the region. The historic rail-trail setting provides consistent footing and beautiful river scenery throughout, while the multiple distance options create a welcoming community atmosphere for runners of all experience levels.