Sunday, September 14, 2025, the Elk River Rail Trail Marathon unfolds in Gassaway, WV—West Virginia’s only marathon‑distance race along a scenic rail‑trail corridor. Offering a Marathon, Half Marathon, and 5K, this event highlights the developing Elk River Trail, a planned 74‑mile state park following a historic rail line through wooded river valleys.
🏃 Runner Experience & Course Highlights
All distances begin at 8:00 AM EDT (5K at 8:15 AM), with packet pickup as early as 6:30 AM. Both the marathon and half are chip‑timed and point‑to‑point (bus transport provided to start). The flat and fast crushed‑gravel trail meanders along the Elk River, offering a peaceful, shaded course ideal for PRs. Aid stations every 2–3 miles provide water, snacks, and restrooms.
🌟 What Makes It Unique
This boutique‑scale event (half capped at 200 runners) delivers trail solitude with small‑town hospitality. With a course rated scenic (4.7/5) and moderate difficulty (2–3/5), participants enjoy lush tree cover and a wilderness vibe amidst minimal traffic. The race supports the Elk River Trail Foundation, advancing rail‑trail development in the region. Shannon, a runner from RaceRaves, described it as “forest bathing at its best… flat and fast dirt course under a beautiful canopy of trees.
The Elk River Rail Trail Marathon & Half Marathon offers a uniquely serene Appalachian rail‑trail run—blending scenic river views, shaded forests, and flat, fast terrain. Ideal for first‑timers, pace‑chasing runners, and anyone drawn to boutique events that support local trail-building and small‑town hospitality.
