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West Virginia Cryptid Race Series

Date:
Sun, May 31, 2026 at 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Location:
12 Buffalo Creek Rd
Clay County, West Virginia
25043
United States
OpenStreetMap Google Maps
Links:
runsignup.com
Tags:
Run

The West Virginia Cryptid Race Series is a West Virginia–based running series inspired by the state’s legendary cryptids and the unique locations they are said to roam. Each race has its own theme, atmosphere, and community feel, giving runners a fun reason to explore new places while enjoying professionally produced events.

Participants can choose to run a single race or take on the full series. Those who complete multiple races will experience a mix of local folklore, scenic courses, and memorable race-day energy across the region.

The race order begins in Clay with the Bigfoot-themed race, setting the tone in classic Appalachian surroundings. The second stop brings the series to Saint Albans for the Mothman race, offering a fast, fun, and community-focused experience centered around West Virginia’s most iconic legend. The third race takes place in Gassaway, inspired by the Braxton County Monster and one of the state’s most famous cryptid encounters. The series final will be held at Kanawha State Forest with the Sheepsquatch race. This finale features winding forest roads, scenic views, and a true wilderness feel, making it a fitting and challenging conclusion to the Cryptic Race Series.

Whether you are chasing points, personal bests, or just the legends themselves, the Cryptic Race Series delivers a one-of-a-kind running experience rooted in West Virginia lore.

Chase the legends. Run the mystery.

More races nearby

  • Different Not Less - Autism Inclusion 5k [pelwell.com] [Register at runsignup.com]

    Sat, Apr 18, 2026 at 9:00 AM

    Description

    Join us for the 2nd Annual Different Not Less Autism Inclusion 5K* on April 18th at 9:00 AM at Haddad Riverfront Park in Charleston, WV!

    This unique event offers something for everyone. Whether...

    Join us for the 2nd Annual Different Not Less Autism Inclusion 5K* on April 18th at 9:00 AM at Haddad Riverfront Park in Charleston, WV!

    This unique event offers something for everyone. Whether you're aiming for a personal best or looking to enjoy a memorable morning with family, our course welcomes participants of all abilities and experiences. Competitive runners will appreciate professional chip timing, while participants of all ages can take in the joyful atmosphere and engaging sensory elements along the route, including mesmerizing giant bubbles at the turnaround point. Walk, run, roll, or stroll - participate in whatever way feels right for you. Every journey across the finish line is worth celebrating.

    This event is more than just a run. It's an opportunity to raise awareness, build community, and support individuals on the autism spectrum and their families. The race was born from the passion of two remarkable women, Beth Moore and Amanda Lewis, who have personal connections to autism.

    Beth's autism diagnosis as an adult brought clarity to her life, helping her understand her past struggles and embrace her unique perspective. She's passionate about helping others feel seen, valued, and included. Amanda's journey as a mother to Wyatt, who was diagnosed with autism at age two, has been filled with both challenges and victories. Her unwavering advocacy has helped Wyatt thrive, and now she's channeling her determination into this event.

    Together, they're co-chairing this event to benefit Community Autism Resources & Education Systems (CARES), a local nonprofit dedicated to increasing access to evidence-based services while providing education, advocacy, and community outreach to empower West Virginia children on the autism spectrum and their families.

    Early Packet pickup is on April 17th at GoMart Ballpark from 5:30 - 7:30 pm during CARES' Neon Night event. Come collect your packet and see for yourself the difference your participation is making! While Bibs and Chips will be assigned morning of the 5k April 18th (8:00am-8:50am)

    Take a step into the CARES world and watch the joy on a child's face as they play with the Charleston Dirty Birds players, jump on bounce houses, dance in black lights with friends, while knowing that you are helping make it all possible!

    Join us as we run, walk, or roll to show support for our autism community and make a real difference!

    Parking: Available in the garage at 99 Laidley St

    T-Shirts: Register by March 31st to be guaranteed a T-Shirt

    Awards: The top 3 male & female finishers in the following categories will receive medals: 20 and under, 20 to 29, 30 to 39, 40 to 49, 50 to 59, 60 to 69 and 70+

    Early Packet Pickup: Friday 4/17 from 5:30 to 7:30 PM at Go Mart Park (601 Morris St, Charleston, WV 25301)
    49.3 km
    Kanawha Boulevard East, Charleston, West Virginia, 25301, United States
    OpenStreetMap Google Maps

    5k Run Walk

  • New River Gorge Rim to Rim Race [activeswv.org] [Register at runsignup.com]

    Sat, May 02, 2026 at 7:00 AM

    Description

    The New River Gorge Rim to Rim Race is a 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...

    The New River Gorge Rim to Rim Race is a 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. This event is hosted by Active Southern West Virginia at Adventures on the Gorge, where racers will finish at the resorts rim side pool to enjoy a catered brunch overlooking the New River Gorge. The distance is 6 miles. Brunch is included in the registration.

    The race course will begin on the south side of Fayette Station Road and finish at Adventures on the Gorge. Racers should prepare for a descent of 1300 ft and a climb of 1300 ft with the steepest point being a 20% incline - get ready to feel the Burma Burn! The finish line will bring racers to the rim of the gorge with an overlook photo opportunity. Racers are welcome to walk the course but must maintain a 20 minute mile pace to complete the event during the allotted closed road time frame. The morning of the race, racers will check in at the finish area (Adventures on the Gorge) and be provided a bus ride to the start line.

    Use our exclusive link to save money on lodging if you plan to stay at AOTG!

    Protect your registration with RegShield event insurance! If you can’t attend due to one of nearly 20 covered reasons, you’ll receive a full refund of your registration and transaction fees. Simply add insurance at checkout for peace of mind.

    More information can be found here - https://activeswv.org/new-river-gorge-rim-to-rim/

    Racer Perks

    • Closed road course

    • Chip timing

    • Water station on route

    • Bus transportation to the start line

    • Finisher medal

    • Short sleeve t-shirt

    • Post-race brunch

    Important Registration Dates

    • Sep.1 - Nov. 24 | $50

    • Nov. 25 - Dec. 29 | $55

    • Dec. 30 - Feb. 16 | $60

    • Feb. 17 - March 30 | $65

    • March 31 - April 28 | $70

    • April 12 | Last Day for T-Shirt Guarantee (Both free race shirt and add-on map shirt)

    • April 28 | Last Day to purchase additional meals

    • No registration between April 29th -May 1st

    • May 1st at packet pick-up | $80 last minute registration if space is available. Shirt and finisher medal not guaranteed.

    Packet Pickup

    Friday, May 1 - packet pick up will take place between 5-7 PM at Adventures on the Gorge. We highly encourage you to come to Friday packet pick-up! Packets can also be picked up the morning of the race between 6:30am-7:15am.

    Race Day Itinerary

    Racers need to be checking in at Adventures on the Gorge at 7am. More detailed times will be established based on registration numbers.

    Awards

    Awards will be given to the top finishers in each age bracket in the running category ONLY.

    Proceeds benefit Active Southern West Virginia which offers free physical activity programs within communities, elementary schools, local government, and workplaces in Nicholas, Fayette, Raleigh, and Summers counties.

    Thank you to our supporting organizations:

    • Fayette County Sheriff

    • New River Gorge National Park

    • West Virginia Department of Highways

    • Friends of New River

    For additional information, please review the event webpage here

    Active SWV does not mail race bibs, shirts, finisher medals, or awards.

    If you would like items mailed after an event, a $10 donation will be requested to cover shipping and handling.

    Please reach out to hello@activeswv.com with any questions.
    39.4 km
    219 Chestnutburg Rd, Fayette County, West Virginia, 25862, United States
    OpenStreetMap Google Maps

    6 Miles Run Trail Walk

  • Middle Ridge Monster 8 Hour Run [runsignup.com]

    Sat, May 09, 2026 at 8:00 AM

    Description

    The Middle Ridge Monster is a FREE WVMTR Club Event! This is meant to be a social event that encompasses the true spirit of old school ultra running. There won't be 17 different flavors of Doritos,...

    The Middle Ridge Monster is a FREE WVMTR Club Event! This is meant to be a social event that encompasses the true spirit of old school ultra running. There won't be 17 different flavors of Doritos, or gluten free/vegan/no-gmo/sugar free/low carb/organic/fair trade/local sourced pretzels. Just trail runners having a good time. Runners will be able to access their vehicles at the end of each loop and will be able to get any additional food/aid needed.

    It is an 8 hour event. If someone is trying for a distance PR, or wants to get their first ultra, this event is for you. If someone wants to come out and only run for 2 hours, you are welcome. There are no cut-offs. The only finish line is the one you create for yourself. Come hang out with us fine WVMTR folks.

    This is a WVMTR Club Event that has no registration fee, but participants must register on RunSignUp so there is an e-signed waiver and emergency information available. Members and non-members are welcome! Joining WVMTR is not necessary to participate in this event, but we encourage you to support our events by becoming members. Yearly membership is only $10 and allows us to offer these wonderful free club events. Become a member today or visit our membership page to learn more!
    48.9 km
    1077 Range Rd, Charleston, West Virginia, 25304, United States
    OpenStreetMap Google Maps

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  • Evan Stowers Memorial 5K Trail Run and 2 Mile Walk [runsignup.com]

    Sun, May 10, 2026 at 2:00 PM

    Description

    Welcome to the 4th Annual Evan Stowers Memorial 5k Trail Run and 2 Mile Walk taking place in South Charleston's Little Creek Park! This race will be a moderate trail run with rolling, single track...

    Welcome to the 4th Annual Evan Stowers Memorial 5k Trail Run and 2 Mile Walk taking place in South Charleston's Little Creek Park! This race will be a moderate trail run with rolling, single track trails and one steep climb. The race finishes on the road. The walk is an out and back on the road.

    PROFESSIONAL TIMING BY APTIMING!!!

    • THERE IS A VIRTUAL OPTION*

    This event is in honor of SCHS graduate Evan Stowers who fought a brave battle with Spitzoid melanoma. Evan was a South Charleston cross country runner and Little Creek Park was one of his favorite places. This event benefits WV Kids Cancer Crusaders.

    Please consider carpooling to this event as parking at Little Creek is limited

    This event will have a 200 runner/walker limit for the in-person events

    Registration and Timing

    Early registration (March 31 to May 10)

    • 5k Trail Run: $25

    • Virtual Run: $25

    • 2 Mile Walk: $20

    Regular Registration (May 10-May 24)

    • 5k Trail Run: $30

    • Virtual Run: $30

    • 2 Mile Walk: $25

    RACEDAY REGISTRATION WILL BE AVAILABLE: RUN $40. WALK $30.

    CUSTOM DRAW STRING BAGS GUARANTEED TO THE FIRST HUNDRED REGISTERED. FIRST 100 REGISTERED WILL HAVE THEIR BAGS FILLED WITH GOODIES! Thank you Citizen Kane Artistry and AMCo LTD!

    PACKET PICKUP ON RACE DAY: 1 HOUR BEFORE START TIME

    Awards- Hand Made Coffee Mugs!!!

    Runners:

    Awards will be given to top 2 overall male and female winners

    Age group awards will begin to the top two runners, male and female, in the following age groups:

    • 19 and under

    • 20 - 29

    • 30 - 39

    • 40 - 49

    • 50 - 59

    • 60 - 69

    • 70 and over

    There will not be duplicate awards, or virtual awards

    Awards will be given to first 2 walkers to finish

    A special thanks to Citizen Kane Artistry and Kaitlyn Dingess for awards!

    THERE WILL BE RAFFLE ITEMS!!! RAFFLE TICKETS ARE $1 EACH OR 6 FOR $5 OR 12 FOR $10.
    46.6 km
    971 Charles Hagerman Way, Kanawha County, West Virginia, 25309, United States
    OpenStreetMap Google Maps

    2 Miles 3.1 Miles 5k Run Trail Virtual Walk

  • Children's Home Society of WV Third Annual 5K [runsignup.com]

    Sat, May 30, 2026 at 9:00 AM

    Description

    In loving memory of Buffy Bonwell.

    Children’s Home Society needs your support. On May 30th, 2026, we are hosting our third annual 5k fundraiser at the University of Charleston. The Children’s Home...

    In loving memory of Buffy Bonwell.

    Children’s Home Society needs your support. On May 30th, 2026, we are hosting our third annual 5k fundraiser at the University of Charleston. The Children’s Home Society has been serving children and families for over 129 years. Today, we have 13 primary locations and 28 physical locations to provide adoption, foster care, and emergency shelter care statewide. Our goal is to raise funds that will assist the needs of the children at the Davis Child Shelter and in our Foster Care and Adoption Program.

    The 5K run/walk race will be hosted at the University of Charleton. Water stations will be set up for the convenience of the participants.
    47.7 km
    2300 MacCorkle Ave SE, Charleston, West Virginia, 25304, United States
    OpenStreetMap Google Maps

    5k Run Walk

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