16 running, walking, and cycling events in Charleston, West Virginia

The Charleston Winter Series is the fundraiser for Charleston Parks and Recreation to fund youth programs. Thank you for your support!

Three Races to Earn your Hoodie! All on Sundays, All from UC Pharmacy School Parking Lot, all at 2PM.

5K - December 14, 2025

8K - February 15, 2026 NOTICE LOCATION AND DATE CHANGE SEE EMAIL!! Kanawha Blvd Magic Island Park

10K - March 8, 2026 NOTICE LOCATION AND DATE CHANGE SEE EMAIL!! Kanawha Blvd Magic Island Park

$90.00 for entire Series (to earn Hoodie!) Students $30.00 for entire Series (also earns Hoodie!)

Individual races $40.00 (no Hoodie)

Medals for Age group winners 10 yr age groups

AGE GROUPS

10 and under

11-14

15-19

20-29

30-39

40-49

50-59

60-69

70-79

80+

Live Registration at each race is available 1 hour before race time.

10th Celtic Calling Gathering and Friends of Spring Hill Cemetery Park and Arboretum: 5K Kilt Run and 2K Walk

Charleston’s most scenic run/walk takes place in the historic Spring Hill Cemetery Park and Arboretum. It’s a rolling course of discovery with flora and fauna and monuments to historic founders of the city; and beautiful views over the Kanawha Valley. The sound of Bagpipes will welcome you and spur you on around the course. Kilts and Celtic attire are optional but add to the occasion.

What State 5K visitors said:

“Charleston is one for the books, my 36th State overall!. We all agreed that the run was one of our favorites for the beauty of it and the bagpipes playing beginning to end! (Not the hills!!) Most importantly, the PEOPLE!! We met the nicest people at the run and right after at the coffee shop. We went to two breweries and caught up with more people at The Blue Parrot while dancing the night away listening to the Rogues. We had a fantastic trip." - Visitor from Illinois

Can you set a new course record ?

Hector Falcon:16.21set in 2025, and Kathryn Wilson: 20.10, set in 2022.

Fees and Registration:

Entry Fees :

2K Walkers (Not Timed) - $20

5K Runners/Walkers (Timed) - $ 25

After February 15th:

2K Walkers (Not Timed) - $25

5K Runners/Walkers (Timed) - $30

Online Registration: closes March 5th.

On Day/Live Registration: Come early, 1hr before race time (Cash or Check). Not guaranteed to receive a medal:

2K Walkers (Not Timed) - $30

5K Runners/Walkers (Timed) - $35

Part of a Group, Club, Business or Organization?

Sign up individually and register your group name and participants the morning of race. Your group must be 7 or more people and may receive an award.

Day of Race:

Parking: Signage and Stewards will direct you to Parking areas. They are located at East and West gates and may be as much as 1/2 mile away.

8am - Check in, collect Race # and sticker at Administration Building.

8 30am - Day off Registration closes.

8 30am - Bagpipes will entertain from Administration Buildings Porch.

9 am - Race Start Time

5K Kilt Run Course

Starts and Finishes at the Administration Building. The course is an undulating figure of 8 with over 300 ft of elevation gain. It will take you to points East and West in the 180 acre Cemetery.

2K Kilt Walk Course: Starts and Finishes at the Administration Building. This is not a timed Walk.

AWARDS

All participants will receive a medal celebrating the 10th Celtic Calling Gathering and be entered into a raffle for merchandise, gift certificates and fun items donated by local merchants.

Overall 1st - Male(M) & Female (F) – Special Awards TBA

Sections, all age group winners will receive an award. In the past this has been a coffee mug, embossed with Celtic Calling Logo but may change this year:

14 and under 1st - M&F

19 and under 1st - M&F

29 and under 1st - M&F

39 and under 1st - M&F

49 and under 1st - M&F

59 and under 1st - M&F

69 and under 1st - M&F

70 and over. 1st - M&F

1st Dog running with owner completing 5K, presented to owner.

Best Dressed Runner/Walker Kilt/Attire - M&F

Best dressed/cutest dog running with owner.

Awards 2K Walk (Not Timed) :

Best Dressed Kilt/Attire - M&F

Best dressed/cutest dog, walking with owner.

Group Award:

Largest Group (Can include timed and not timed, runners and walkers together) – Special award and a tree planted in your honor.

Proceeds:

After expenses, all proceeds go to Friends of Spring Hill Cemetery Park & Arboretum. This non-profit organization works in cooperation with the City of Charleston to promote, enhance and develop Spring Hill Cemetery Park and Mary Price Ratrie Arboretum; for the use and enjoyment of the public.

More:

https://www.springhillcemeterycharleston.com/

https://www.ratriearboretum.com/

The Kilt Run and Walk is part of the 10th Celtic Calling Gathering. 5 days of events that take place around downtown Charleston that raise up Celtic heritage, arts and culture: www.celticcalling.org

Sponsored by Spring Hill Cemetery Commission

Flat Roads, Fast Times, and Friendly Vibes – Run Charleston!

A fast and flat Boston qualifying course through the City of Charleston, West Virginia will take you 26.2 miles around our state capitol, on the historic streets of the city, across the Kanawha river, and through the University of Charleston campus! The University of Charleston Marathon intends to promote community, encourage health and wellness, and serve as a critical funding source for the University of Charleston Honors College students. We aim to provide a high-quality race experience for runners, volunteers, spectators and the surrounding community.

COURSE MAP

This USATF-Certified course is ideal for personal records or Boston qualifying times. (USATF-WV25002MS)

STAY AND PLAY

The UC Marathon Preferred Hotel is Four Points by Sheraton. Book by Monday, March 16, 2026 for the special UC Marathon rate.

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)

The 10th annual Race to End Racism is dedicated to promoting unity and social justice. This community-driven race features a 5K run and a 1-mile walk, offering participants of all ages and abilities the opportunity to take a stand against racism while fostering awareness and inclusion.

Whether running competitively or walking in solidarity, every step taken in the Race to End Racism supports education, advocacy, and action to build a more just and inclusive society.

Join us as we lace up our shoes and make an impact—Diversity celebrates our differences. Equity ensures equal opportunities. Inclusion is how we all belong.

Online registration will end at 11:59PM on April 24. Race day registrants will not be timed.

The Max Arco Mastromichalis Foundation 5K

Join us at 9 a.m. Sunday, April 26 for The Max Arco Mastromichalis Foundation 5K - a fun, community-centered race created to honor Max's legacy and raise funds for graduating George Washington High School seniors each year. Max was passionate about fitness, determination, and living life with a full heart, making this fundraiser a meaningful way to celebrate the values he lived by.

Packet pick up will occur at George Washington High School parking lot, located at 1522 Tennis Club Road in Charleston, 5-7 p.m. Saturday, April 25. Check-in for the race begins at 8 a.m. at Slack Plaza for those unable to pick up their packets the evening before.

Registration is $65 for adults and $50 for students.

One of our generous sponsors, Fife Street Brewing, will be open at 10 a.m. so participants can enjoy a drink and a burger named in Max's honor! A portion of the proceeds will go to the Foundation. First, second, and third place finishers over 21 get a free pint following the race!

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!

The Big Timber Trot 10K and 6K returns on May 25 in Kanawha State Forest for a scenic and challenging trail race directed by the same experienced team that has hosted races in the forest for years. This event is one of two races held annually in the park and reflects our continued commitment to delivering high quality, well organized trail running experiences. Both distances will start and finish at Shelter 6 and guide runners along winding forest roads, steady climbs, and classic West Virginia terrain that is welcoming to newer trail runners while still offering a rewarding challenge for seasoned participants.

Race shirts are guaranteed to all runners who register by May 15 at midnight, with remaining extras available first come first served while supplies last.

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.

Each June, the CAMC Foundation holds the CAMC Foundation Run for Your Life 5-Mile Run/2.5-Mile Walk. All proceeds from the event benefit colorectal cancer awareness and screening initiatives to help people who cannot otherwise afford critical screening procedures in our community. Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer, and the second deadliest in both men and women combined in the United States.

The 5 mile run and 2.5 mile walk begins at Haddad Riverfront Park, takes runners and walkers through the streets of Charleston and returns to the park to finish. Each year, more than 400 runners and walkers come out to enjoy a morning of physical activity, music along the event course, refreshments at the finish line, and support a good cause.

Has colorectal cancer touched your life or someone close to you? We want to help share your story!

By signing up, you can share your personal connection to colorectal cancer through our event’s platform and raise funds that stay right here in our community; benefiting the health of your friends, neighbors, and loved ones.

Welcome to the 2026 Black Bear Bike Festival! In conjunction with the West Virginia Mountain Bike Association (WVMBA) and the City of Charleston, we hope to have a fun, safe and enjoyable event for racers, non-racing bike riders and spectators alike. The social rides leave at 10:00 a.m. and the WVMBA race kicks off at noon. Finish line headquarters will have food trucks, kid's zone, and restroom facilities.

Spectators Area - Free - A spectators area will located along the park road at the bottom of Black Bear and Pigeon Roost Trail. Racers will start coming through about 12:30, so please be in position early. If you are driving, follow Kanawha Forest Park Drive approximately 4.3 miles from the Park Entrance to the large parking area at the Johnson Hollow shelter area and then walk the remaining distance along Park Drive to the spectator area. There is no parking adjacent to the spectator area. Please be aware that both the road and the trails are OPEN!!!!! Please use caution when in the area to avoid both vehicle traffic and interfering with racers on their quest for glory. After the racers have passed by, please return to the park headquarters lot to enjoy the rest of the festival and to watch the racers cross the finish line, enjoy some food and beverages and to celebrate the podium winners!

KID'S ZONE - FREE - The Kid's Zone will be located at the Headquarters Playground (Headquarters Parking Lot) from 11:00 to 2:00 pm for our youngest cyclists to have fun with new friends and to hone their skills on level grass and some small skill features. While free, registration (and liability waiver) is required. Bring your bike!

Group Mountain Bike Ride (Non-competitive) - $25

Join the group mountain bike ride for a ten-mile, intermediate skill-level ride on Kanawha State Forest’s newest trails. Volunteers will lead the ride and provide a sweep for any rider having trouble during the ride. The group ride will depart the Nature Center (main) parking lot at 10:00 a.m. and will climb Portercamp Hollow, a long, sustained gravel climb with 450-feet of elevation gain. After the climb, riders will descend Tuskegee a/k/a Bomber Ridge, a rolling and rollicking good time, then onto Flatlander, then around Snail Bite a/k/a Portercamp Trail. From there is onto Betty’s Bench a/k/a Whitetail Trail and then a descent of Miracle Mile a/k/a The Bob Ward Pathway and back to the Nature Center. While NOT a race, this is an intermediate level “real” mountain bike ride, where you will encounter steep climbs, singletrack trails, switchbacks, roots, rocks and other natural obstacles.

Route information: https://www.strava.com/routes/3350293716262420480

Group Paved Ride (Non-competitive) - $25

Join the group paved ride for either a 10 or 13-mile paved tour of Kanawha State Forest. Volunteers will lead the ride and provide a sweep for any rider having trouble during the ride. This ride will depart the Nature Center (main) parking lot at 10:00 a.m. and will turn left towards Dunlap Hollow after 1.1 miles, the riders will regroup and return towards the Nature Center. Riders wishing to end their ride at the 2.2 mile point can break off from the group. Riders wishing to complete the 8.8-mile route will ride to the Forest entrance and then onto Range Road to it end at the shooting range and back to the Nature Center. This is a beginner-friendly paved ride with minimal elevation change and no long or sustained climbs.

Route information: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/50265196

Group Gravel Ride (Non-competitive) - $25

Join the group gravel ride for a gravel ride. Volunteers will lead the ride and provide a sweep for any rider having trouble during the ride. This ride will depart the Nature Center (main) parking lot at 10:00 a.m. and return back to the Nature Center. This is an intermediate ride.

WEST VIRGINIA MOUNTIAIN BIKE ASSOCIATION:

Race 7 out of 9, Black Bear Bike Festival, is the seventh event of the WVMBA Cross Country Mountain Bike Series. This race takes place at Kanawha State Forest Formerly known as the Black Bear 40K it's the longest running race in our series and started in 1986. Kanawha State forest features some classic back country trails mixed with modern trail designs on the Middle Ridge trail.

The WVMBA series is recognized as one of the oldest mountain bike racing series in the nation, renowned for its challenging courses and the vibrant community of riders it attracts. Join us in celebrating the spirit of mountain biking and enhancing our trails by becoming a WVMBA member at: WVMBA Membership 2026 Membership not only supports the promotion and development of mountain biking in the state but also provides benefits such as discounts on race entries.

The WVMBA race starts at 12 noon or shortly after, (unless otherwise posted). All participants must attend the pre-race meeting.

WVMBA Race Categories:

Each WVMBA Series Race offers participants the opportunity to choose from three categories when selecting their race class. Your choice should be based on a combination of fitness level, skill, and the time you anticipate needing to complete the course.

• Pro/Cat 1: Distances range from 18 to 24 miles. This category is designed for experienced riders who are prepared for a challenging course.

• Cat 2: Distances range from 12 to 18 miles. This category is suitable for intermediate riders, offering a balanced challenge.

• Cat 3/Beginner: Distances range from 5 to 12 miles. This category is perfect for those new to racing or looking for a less intense experience.

Licenses/Membership:

WVMBA is pleased to announce that no USA Cycling license will be required this season. We encourage you to consider becoming a WVMBA member, as your support helps ensure the organization’s long-term future.

Annual members will receive a $5 discount code for each race entry. If you are not a member, the full cost of race entries will be included in your event registration.

WVMBA memberships can be purchased here: WVMBA Membership 2026.

Please note: You are encouraged to obtain an Annual WVMBA membership before registering for any race, as we cannot provide refunds for memberships purchased after registration.

WVMBA Category pricing:

All races will have a consistent price point to maximize the prize purse and simplify race-day registration. Cat 1 Juniors will have full payout opportunities.

All Cat 1 race entrees are $50 (including Juniors) (+online reg fees)

Cat 2 and Cat 3 for all adult categories are $50, Monday before race $60. (+online reg fees)

Cat 2 and Cat 3 for all Junior classes are $30, Monday before race $40. (+online reg fees)

WVMBA Annual Members will be $25 and $45, Monday before the race, $35 and $55.

All race entrees will increase $10 Sunday at midnight on the week before your event. Online registration will end on Friday before your event.

Starting June 8th, registration fees for all racers will increase by $10. Registration will close at 5:00 p.m. on Friday, June 12th, to allow time to submit the final roster to our timing company, Miles of Smiles.

Same-day, on-site registration is available (cash or check only). Fees are $60 for adults and $40 for Junior Categories.

Prizes:

Each category in the WVMBA Series is distance-based and offers unique prize opportunities:

Cat 1/Pro Categories: Competitors in this category will race for cash prizes awarded to the top three positions across all five subcategories. Notably, there is equal pay for both the men's open and women's open divisions, ensuring fairness and recognition for all athletes.

Cat 2, Cat 3, E-Bikes: Participants in these categories will compete for a prize table or special awards for the top three finishers in each subcategory. The specific prizes will be determined at the promoter's discretion.

The Award Ceremony for The Black Bear Mountain Bike Race will take place after all races have been accounted for on the course and will take place at the Shrewsbury Hollow Shelter

Rules:

Please review the updated WVMBA Racing Rules and Regulations available on our website. This comprehensive guide outlines all the necessary information for participating in our series.

Additionally, we are excited to offer E-Bike options for Class 1 pedal-assist e-bikes. You can find the specific rules for E-Bike participation in the same section on our website. Explore the details today to ensure you’re fully prepared for the race!

Course Information:

The single-track trails in Kanawha State Forest are known for their demanding climbs and technical descents.

Download your race course:

Cat 1 - Expert: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/55364757

Cat 2 - Sport: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/55364605

Cat 3 - Beginner:https://ridewithgps.com/routes/55364843

The full competition schedule can be found here.

Please review the event eligibility guide here to ensure participation qualifications are met.

Please note, all riders who want to compete at the 2026 Pro Road National Championships (Elite, U23, Junior 17-18) must meet all eligibility, licensing, category, and age requirements as indicated in the eligibility guide linked above.

Riders must have both an active USA Cycling Membership and the appropriate Race License add-on to compete.

For event updates and additional resources, refer to the USA Cycling Pro Road National Championships event page, as it will continue to be updated leading into the event.

Questions can be directed to [email protected].

Location Information

Learn more about our host here. You will be able to find lodging options and information on local restaurants and activities.

Any USA Cycling member could be tested at any event organized or sanctioned by USA Cycling and must adhere to all USADA, UCI and/or their designees anti-doping control procedures in effect at the event. Watch this short video to ensure you are adhering to anti-doping rules.

USA Cycling has a No Refund Policy for National Championships. We suggest adding the Participant Registration Insurance when completing your registration in BikeReg.