Highball to Thurmond Ultra
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Event overview
The Highball to Thurmond Ultra & Relay is a point-to-point trail event on May 17, 2026, in New River Gorge National Park, West Virginia. Races finish in Thurmond, WV, and runners may return to the start area by boarding the Amtrak train from the finish. The event uses park trails, mountain dirt roads, and sections of paved road.
Race options and course details
- 50 Mile Ultra - point-to-point from Montgomery to Thurmond, about 5,000 feet elevation gain.
- 50K - point-to-point from Hawks Nest State Park to Thurmond, about 3,100 feet elevation gain.
- 50 Mile Relay - teams of 2 to 4, handoffs at official aid stations; each team member must run at least one leg.
- 50K Ruck, Pacer, Virtual 50K, Virtual 50 Mile also offered.
The 50 Mile course includes roughly 12 miles of paved road plus mountain dirt roads and rugged trails. Aid stations are described as well-stocked and the 50K course is noted as well-marked and well-aided. Awards include top overall and age-group prizes and relay-team awards; finisher items include a medal and a custom hoodie. Registration may include an option to add a train ticket for the return trip. Rules note refund and transfer policies and that entries cannot be deferred to another year. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
