Top Summer Races In Pocahontas County

Get ready for a summer full of racing in Pocahontas County, West Virginia. From mountain biking to trail running, take on scenic routes and rugged climbs throughout the county. Whether you are looking for an endurance challenge or a family-friendly event, here are some of the top summer races happening this season.

West Virginia Trail Fest 

Location: Snowshoe Mountain Resort

Date: May 23-24

Back for its third year, the West Virginia Trail Fest is a family-friendly trail running event offering race options throughout the day — and night — for participants of all skill levels.

Dark Skies 100k 

If you are looking for the ultimate endurance challenge, the Dark Skies 100k delivers. This point-to-point race begins at midnight at Seneca State Forest and features 11,500 feet of elevation gain. Runners will climb two historic fire towers, travel through three state parks, pass the Green Bank Observatory and summit two of West Virginia’s three highest peaks before finishing at the Snowshoe Village.

Full Moon 50k

Starting at 7 a.m. at Cass Scenic Railroad State Park, the Full Moon 50k winds through Pocahontas County with 7,400 feet of vertical ascent. Along the way, runners will climb two historic fire towers and summit two of West Virginia’s three highest peaks before finishing at the Snowshoe Village.

Stargazer 30k

Beginning at 9 a.m. at the Snowshoe Village, the Stargazer 30k combines singletrack trails and fire roads around Snowshoe Mountain, with the option to climb the Snowshoe fire tower. With 3,800 feet of vertical ascent, this route is perfect for both runners and hikers.

Twilight 5k

Starting at 6 p.m. at the Snowshoe Village, the Twilight 5k utilizes the bike trails at Snowshoe Mountain Resort and challenges runners with varied terrain and nearly 700 feet of elevation gain.

Kids Mile

Kids can join the fun during the Kids Mile, beginning at 9:15 a.m. at the Snowshoe Village.

The weekend also includes movie nights, kids activities, rides on the Cass Historic Railroad and an awards ceremony.

Minetana XC Mountain Bike Race

Location: Mower Basin Trailhead

Date: May 24

The Minetana XC Mountain Bike Race takes riders through the scenic Mower Basin with sweeping views of Cheat Mountain and the surrounding valleys. Hosted by Pocahontas Trails, this event is race five in the West Virginia Mountain Bike Association series. Participants can extend their weekend with dispersed camping throughout the Mower Basin or head into Durbin for food and lodging.

Space Race Rumpus 

Location: Green Bank Observatory

Date: June 5-7

Held at the Green Bank Observatory, Space Race Rumpus gives cyclists the rare opportunity to ride around the world’s largest steerable telescope. This weekend-long event features guided rides for both mountain and road biking enthusiasts, short-track competitions near the observatory’s radio telescopes — including the iconic 485-foot Robert C. Byrd Green Bank Telescope — and races for all ages and abilities. The event also includes camping, live music and additional activities throughout the weekend.

Monday Lick Enduro

Location: Stillwell Park

Date: June 20-21

Race through the Monday Lick Trail System just outside Marlinton during the Monday Lick Enduro. Hosted by Pocahontas Trails, this event serves as stop three on the West Virginia Enduro Series. Camping is available at Stillwell Park.

Ruff Race

Location: Snowshoe Mountain Resort

Date: July 5

Bring the whole family, including your four-legged friends, to the Ruff Race! This fun and family-friendly 5k winds through the woods and Snowshoe Village, allowing runners to go at whatever pace their pets prefer.

Slaty Fork Enduro 

Location: Mine Road, Slaty Fork

Date: August 8-9

Take on classic Gauley Mountain roots and rocks during the Slaty Fork Enduro. Located on Mine Road, this two-day cycling race gives riders a fast-paced tour of the Gauley Headwaters. Hosted by Pocahontas Trails, this event is stop four on the West Virginia Enduro Series. Racers can also enjoy a lively campground atmosphere with food and live music throughout the weekend.

Find More Events

Whether you are competing or simply looking for a fun way to enjoy the outdoors, there is a summer race for everyone in Pocahontas County! Explore more upcoming events on our calendar and request a free Adventure Guide to start planning your trip.