Active Southern West Virginia Signature Events bring quality fundraising events to southern West Virginia. These fee based races raise funds for the free programs of Active SWV while providing more opportunity for family friendly and beginner racers. Each Signature Event has its own page to learn more. You can also find out more about volunteering for events at the bottom of this page.
Location: New River Gorge National Park and Preserve and Adventures on the Gorge
The New River Gorge Rim to Rim Race is a 6 mile running road race from one rim of the New River Gorge, down to the bottom where you’ll cross over the New River, then back to the rim of the other side with a short trail section to finish. This bucket list event will provide runners with breathtaking views throughout the course in the adventure sports capital of West Virginia – Fayetteville.
Location: Bridge Brew Works
Embark on an exhilarating journey through the stunning landscapes of Wolf Creek Trails in Fayetteville, WV. We invite you to the Howlin’ Trails 5K/10K at Wolf Creek powered by Active SWV Races. Kicking off at Bridge Brew Works, this race offers a blend of challenge and excitement as you navigate through a lush-wooded area and rolling trails.
Location: Thurmond
Join us for the Thurmond Triathlon, a beginner-friendly event in the heart of historic Thurmond! Immerse yourself in the rich history and breathtaking scenery while biking, paddling, and running through one of the most iconic spots in West Virginia.
J.W. and Hazel Ruby Welcome Center
Come celebrate the impact we’ve made together—and help us continue to grow. We are excited to invite you to the Active SWV Annual Celebration. We will spend a beautiful night celebrating the important work of building active lifestyles in our communities. This fundraising event will honor exceptional organization champions during an evening of great food and live music.
Location: Bridge Haven Golf Course
Come out for a fun day of golf, special event prizes, a buy-in putting contest and more – accompanied by a delicious lunch! Tournament format will be a 4-person scramble (best ball). Registration includes lunch and a goodie bag with assorted aids including a mulligan and red tee per player.
Location: Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine
Active SWV is excited to welcome runners back to the Beckley Half Marathon &5K! Starting and finishing at the iconic Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine, this race blends local history with a course that highlights the best of Beckley. This event promises strong community support, great scenery, and a finish-line experience worth celebrating in southern West Virginia.
Location: Fayetteville, WV
The Active SWV Bridge Day 5K RUN is a race across the New River Gorge Bridge. Racers must maintain a jogging pace for the first mile of this event. This event is hosted during the larger Bridge Day event requiring specific racer instructions and guidelines.
Location: Fayette County Park
Experience the Winter Wonderland light display at Fayette County Park while walking or running at your own pace. Participants are welcome to complete as many laps as they’d like during the one-hour event. This is not a timed race.
The event is stroller-friendly and designed for all ages. Children 12 and under attend for free, and the cost for adults is $10 per person (cash or sign up online beforehand).
Guests are encouraged to wear festive attire and join in the fun of the Ugly Sweater and Deck the Stroller contests, with a lighthearted runway and photo opportunity during the evening.
Join us for a unique, active, and family-friendly holiday experience.
Active SWV Races is proud to partner with Country Road Cabins as our Premier Lodging Sponsor. Located just minutes from the New River Gorge National Park & Preserve and close to our race venues, Country Road Cabins offers award-winning, private wooded accommodations perfect for race weekend.
Choose from cozy cabins, glamping tents, tree houses, a geodesic dome, or even an Airstream stay — all featuring fully stocked kitchens, Wi-Fi, and private hot tubs ideal for pre-race preparation and post-race recovery.
Race weekends in the New River Gorge fill quickly. We encourage participants to secure lodging early and support the businesses that support local racing.
