| 2023 | 2022 | 2021 | 2020 | 2019 | |
| H (°F) | 73 | 74 | 82 | 86 | 67 |
| L (°F) | 60 | 54 | 64 | 64 | 49 |
This was my one and only night race and I loved it! It was out and back twice along a paved road within the state park. On the way back … MORE
This was my one and only night race and I loved it! It was out and back twice along a paved road within the state park. On the way back you get to go past the falls, which you can hear from the path. The rolling hills made it a bit challenging but overall it was a very cool experience.
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Full disclosure: While my ratings are a bit low for this race, I still enjoyed the experience. You're gonna want to read on to learn more. SCENERY: One of my … MORE
Full disclosure: While my ratings are a bit low for this race, I still enjoyed the experience. You’re gonna want to read on to learn more.
SCENERY: One of my top criteria for selecting (and rating) races. And the scenery in Blackwater Falls State Park IS gorgeous. The canyon walls…the miles of green mountains…the waterfall…all beautiful. But I can only give the race partial credit: You can’t enjoy the view when you’re running in the pitch black of night. It WAS cool to see all the runners lit up with neon glow sticks and color vests. But after the half marathoners disappeared, so did the carnival vibe. (Park scenery: 10/10; race scenery: Incomplete)
HILLS: It wasn’t just the 2,400 ft. of elevation gain that killed me. It was the non-stop hills. You’re almost never running flat. Go up a hill, go down a hill, repeat. It was challenging…and I’m glad I did it.
SWAG: No race expo. The “medal” was a unique handmade pottery thing. That’s pretty cool. The soft, light hoodie race shirt was also nice. One of my faves. Don’t expect any other swag, though.
FOOD/AID STATIONS: Zero stars. No post-race food for runners. Not even a banana. Aid stations were adequately spaced, although not much care given. This was a “fend for yourself” race. They never promised to be otherwise. I’m scoring poorly here, though, because I’ve learned I like being spoiled (and refueled) at a race.
COMMUNICATION: Not the best. 100% focused on selling race entries. Pre-race…post-race…it’s all push marketing. Too many emails trying to get you to register (even after you’ve already registered). At least they were responsive on social media when people asked questions…that’s a positive.
LODGING: I rented a vacation cabin at the park with some buddies. I think it was maybe $350/night split between us. It could accommodate eight, so if you split that with other runners, it’s a great deal. Not rustic at all…more like a hotel room in the woods: WiFi, TV, AC, full kitchen, etc. Cabin was right next to the race route, so perfect for mid-race fueling, support crew, etc.
FINAL THOUGHTS: The highlight of this race was the setting. Stay for a few days and explore the nearby towns of Thomas and Davis. Hike the trails of the park. See the waterfall. The race itself was okay — but for me, the mini vacation is what made the weekend.
Don’t get me wrong…the experience of running under moonlight with a waterfall within earshot was cool. If you don’t mind a minimalist event, you’ll have a good time. I’m glad I ran this event. My lower scores are more a reflection of what I’ve enjoyed about other events. But don’t take my word…run it for yourself and let me know what you think!
Beautiful park. Nice swag. Didn't see the after party but by the time I finished most people were gone. I got there a few hours prior to the race and … MORE
Beautiful park. Nice swag. Didn’t see the after party but by the time I finished most people were gone. I got there a few hours prior to the race and enjoyed the view of the park. But for the race itself it was VERY dark so I can’t really give it a scenery rating.
Now onto the actual race. Omg it was VERY hilly. I wasn’t prepared for that as I haven’t been training due to work schedule changes and I haven’t been able to get into a routine. So that’s on me. But, if you are conditioned for hills then this race is for you! I ended up walking almost the whole thing. It is walker friendly luckily since you have till 7am to get it done (race starts at 10p). I struggled but I did complete it! There is a gravel spot which can possibly trip you up but it was only maybe a half mile of it?
They did run out of half medals (but the only difference was the color of the cord they used as a lanyard. The medal was the same across all distances) so I ended up with a marathon one. No big deal.
Overall, if you are trained up and can handle hills then this race is for you. I loved how it was a night race and it was just different for that. I think later I want to redeem myself after I’ve trained up for this.
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This race was extremely well run, with lots of communication and information provided via email and race Facebook group. This night race was such a unique experience, especially at the … MORE
This race was extremely well run, with lots of communication and information provided via email and race Facebook group. This night race was such a unique experience, especially at the beginning of the race when you see nothing but a sea of runners with various lights on them. It was a rather tough/hilly course, which really caught up with me on the second loop. Was almost a personal worst time for me, but it was really peaceful to be in the park at night with a clear sky full of stars. The medals in 2022 were handmade from a local ceramics shop, which I enjoyed. If you are a 50 states half or marathoner, look no further for your WV race.
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There is no scenery because it’s a night race, but the park is beautiful during the day. Every single person we met was friendly and the race was well organized! … MORE
There is no scenery because it’s a night race, but the park is beautiful during the day. Every single person we met was friendly and the race was well organized! We had a blast!!!
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This night run was very interesting - a 6.5 mile out and back hilly course, so you have to run 2 laps of it for the half marathon. There's also … MORE
This night run was very interesting – a 6.5 mile out and back hilly course, so you have to run 2 laps of it for the half marathon. There’s also a section that drops onto a gravel path (slippery) to run by Blackwater Falls, but I wish it was lit up. Super dark along the course, but lighted vest and headlamp worked out fine. There were 3 aid stations along the course, which seemed sufficient. lots of snacks at the finish. nice ceramic medal, and lightweight hoodie! I would def recommend staying in one of the deluxe vacation cabins in the park – all within a 1/2 mile of start and packet pick up. And take a couple of days before or after to hike the trails in the park! (difficult to rate course scenery since it was in the DARK, but the stars were all out!)
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First off, I cannot say enough about this running company. They really have their sh*t together! There was a lot going on at this event and it was so well … MORE
First off, I cannot say enough about this running company. They really have their sh*t together! There was a lot going on at this event and it was so well coordinated. The ambiance was killer. The start/finish arch glowed bright neon green. There was live music and food trucks and really cool swag available for purchase. The run itself was in a state park that is considered a “dark park”. Not much really to see around you bc its so dark. Headlamps are required. The course was two 6.55 mile loops to make the half marathon distance and it was surprisingly hilly. Like very hilly. The finishers medal was great too, very high quality and is of the races logo.
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This is an Ultras, Marathon, Half and Relay. This would be a very fun race to do as a relay with your friends. This race is run at night, starting … MORE
This is an Ultras, Marathon, Half and Relay. This would be a very fun race to do as a relay with your friends. This race is run at night, starting at 10 p.m. in a State Park. The pre-race communication was absolutely awesome. You can tell this race is near and dear to the RD heart as he puts so much effort into it. It is a loop course where you have about 450′ of elevation per loop so if you are doing the marathon you should be prepared for that. Aide stations and on course porta potties were plentiful. You have to wear headlamps and reflective vests or clothing. Definitely a great place to get there a day or two early and get some hiking in.
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Inaugural race was a SUCCESS. Pre-race, the race director was very reachable and engaged. Answered emails/Facebook posts quickly. Even gave us better directions for drive from Pittsburg because GPS would … MORE
Inaugural race was a SUCCESS.
Pre-race, the race director was very reachable and engaged. Answered emails/Facebook posts quickly. Even gave us better directions for drive from Pittsburg because GPS would have had us going curvy mountain roads. He held a live Q&A on-line too. The Facebook page for the race was very informative. Robby is the most visible engaged race director I’ve ever seen.
Race is held in Blackwater State Park. I’m sure John Denver was describing this park when he wrote the song “Almost Heaven, West Virginia.” Get your accommodations early and if possible, get one of the Southside cabins. Cozy, secluded, ideal for resting up and recovering from race.
Race starts at 10:00 PM. Only negative -LOTS OF HILLS!!! But the out and back looped road is fine for running in the dark (they shut down traffic in the park) but you will need a headlamp or such as there are no street lights. Very walker friendly because the race doesn’t end until 7:00 AM the next day to accommodate the Ultra-marathon/Distance runners. (4 of us walked the half marathon).
Stay at least a day beforehand and afterwards to be able to enjoy the beauty of the park and the Falls.
In your journey to running in 50 states, this is THE RACE to do for West Virginia!!
A night race to remember
This was my one and only night race and I loved it! It was out and back twice along a paved road within the state park. On the way back … MORE
This was my one and only night race and I loved it! It was out and back twice along a paved road within the state park. On the way back you get to go past the falls, which you can hear from the path. The rolling hills made it a bit challenging but overall it was a very cool experience.
Hills! In the dark! Near a waterfall!
Full disclosure: While my ratings are a bit low for this race, I still enjoyed the experience. You're gonna want to read on to learn more. SCENERY: One of my … MORE
Full disclosure: While my ratings are a bit low for this race, I still enjoyed the experience. You’re gonna want to read on to learn more.
SCENERY: One of my top criteria for selecting (and rating) races. And the scenery in Blackwater Falls State Park IS gorgeous. The canyon walls…the miles of green mountains…the waterfall…all beautiful. But I can only give the race partial credit: You can’t enjoy the view when you’re running in the pitch black of night. It WAS cool to see all the runners lit up with neon glow sticks and color vests. But after the half marathoners disappeared, so did the carnival vibe. (Park scenery: 10/10; race scenery: Incomplete)
HILLS: It wasn’t just the 2,400 ft. of elevation gain that killed me. It was the non-stop hills. You’re almost never running flat. Go up a hill, go down a hill, repeat. It was challenging…and I’m glad I did it.
SWAG: No race expo. The “medal” was a unique handmade pottery thing. That’s pretty cool. The soft, light hoodie race shirt was also nice. One of my faves. Don’t expect any other swag, though.
FOOD/AID STATIONS: Zero stars. No post-race food for runners. Not even a banana. Aid stations were adequately spaced, although not much care given. This was a “fend for yourself” race. They never promised to be otherwise. I’m scoring poorly here, though, because I’ve learned I like being spoiled (and refueled) at a race.
COMMUNICATION: Not the best. 100% focused on selling race entries. Pre-race…post-race…it’s all push marketing. Too many emails trying to get you to register (even after you’ve already registered). At least they were responsive on social media when people asked questions…that’s a positive.
LODGING: I rented a vacation cabin at the park with some buddies. I think it was maybe $350/night split between us. It could accommodate eight, so if you split that with other runners, it’s a great deal. Not rustic at all…more like a hotel room in the woods: WiFi, TV, AC, full kitchen, etc. Cabin was right next to the race route, so perfect for mid-race fueling, support crew, etc.
FINAL THOUGHTS: The highlight of this race was the setting. Stay for a few days and explore the nearby towns of Thomas and Davis. Hike the trails of the park. See the waterfall. The race itself was okay — but for me, the mini vacation is what made the weekend.
Don’t get me wrong…the experience of running under moonlight with a waterfall within earshot was cool. If you don’t mind a minimalist event, you’ll have a good time. I’m glad I ran this event. My lower scores are more a reflection of what I’ve enjoyed about other events. But don’t take my word…run it for yourself and let me know what you think!
The hills!!
Beautiful park. Nice swag. Didn't see the after party but by the time I finished most people were gone. I got there a few hours prior to the race and … MORE
Beautiful park. Nice swag. Didn’t see the after party but by the time I finished most people were gone. I got there a few hours prior to the race and enjoyed the view of the park. But for the race itself it was VERY dark so I can’t really give it a scenery rating.
Now onto the actual race. Omg it was VERY hilly. I wasn’t prepared for that as I haven’t been training due to work schedule changes and I haven’t been able to get into a routine. So that’s on me. But, if you are conditioned for hills then this race is for you! I ended up walking almost the whole thing. It is walker friendly luckily since you have till 7am to get it done (race starts at 10p). I struggled but I did complete it! There is a gravel spot which can possibly trip you up but it was only maybe a half mile of it?
They did run out of half medals (but the only difference was the color of the cord they used as a lanyard. The medal was the same across all distances) so I ended up with a marathon one. No big deal.
Overall, if you are trained up and can handle hills then this race is for you. I loved how it was a night race and it was just different for that. I think later I want to redeem myself after I’ve trained up for this.
Great race production, very hilly!
This race was extremely well run, with lots of communication and information provided via email and race Facebook group. This night race was such a unique experience, especially at the … MORE
This race was extremely well run, with lots of communication and information provided via email and race Facebook group. This night race was such a unique experience, especially at the beginning of the race when you see nothing but a sea of runners with various lights on them. It was a rather tough/hilly course, which really caught up with me on the second loop. Was almost a personal worst time for me, but it was really peaceful to be in the park at night with a clear sky full of stars. The medals in 2022 were handmade from a local ceramics shop, which I enjoyed. If you are a 50 states half or marathoner, look no further for your WV race.
This is a great race!!
There is no scenery because it’s a night race, but the park is beautiful during the day. Every single person we met was friendly and the race was well organized! … MORE
There is no scenery because it’s a night race, but the park is beautiful during the day. Every single person we met was friendly and the race was well organized! We had a blast!!!
Hike by Day, Run at Night
This night run was very interesting - a 6.5 mile out and back hilly course, so you have to run 2 laps of it for the half marathon. There's also … MORE
This night run was very interesting – a 6.5 mile out and back hilly course, so you have to run 2 laps of it for the half marathon. There’s also a section that drops onto a gravel path (slippery) to run by Blackwater Falls, but I wish it was lit up. Super dark along the course, but lighted vest and headlamp worked out fine. There were 3 aid stations along the course, which seemed sufficient. lots of snacks at the finish. nice ceramic medal, and lightweight hoodie! I would def recommend staying in one of the deluxe vacation cabins in the park – all within a 1/2 mile of start and packet pick up. And take a couple of days before or after to hike the trails in the park! (difficult to rate course scenery since it was in the DARK, but the stars were all out!)
Hilly AF!
First off, I cannot say enough about this running company. They really have their sh*t together! There was a lot going on at this event and it was so well … MORE
First off, I cannot say enough about this running company. They really have their sh*t together! There was a lot going on at this event and it was so well coordinated. The ambiance was killer. The start/finish arch glowed bright neon green. There was live music and food trucks and really cool swag available for purchase. The run itself was in a state park that is considered a “dark park”. Not much really to see around you bc its so dark. Headlamps are required. The course was two 6.55 mile loops to make the half marathon distance and it was surprisingly hilly. Like very hilly. The finishers medal was great too, very high quality and is of the races logo.
SO MUCH FUN!!!
This is an Ultras, Marathon, Half and Relay. This would be a very fun race to do as a relay with your friends. This race is run at night, starting … MORE
This is an Ultras, Marathon, Half and Relay. This would be a very fun race to do as a relay with your friends. This race is run at night, starting at 10 p.m. in a State Park. The pre-race communication was absolutely awesome. You can tell this race is near and dear to the RD heart as he puts so much effort into it. It is a loop course where you have about 450′ of elevation per loop so if you are doing the marathon you should be prepared for that. Aide stations and on course porta potties were plentiful. You have to wear headlamps and reflective vests or clothing. Definitely a great place to get there a day or two early and get some hiking in.
MUST-DO race for W. Virginia-Night Race
Inaugural race was a SUCCESS. Pre-race, the race director was very reachable and engaged. Answered emails/Facebook posts quickly. Even gave us better directions for drive from Pittsburg because GPS would … MORE
Inaugural race was a SUCCESS.
Pre-race, the race director was very reachable and engaged. Answered emails/Facebook posts quickly. Even gave us better directions for drive from Pittsburg because GPS would have had us going curvy mountain roads. He held a live Q&A on-line too. The Facebook page for the race was very informative. Robby is the most visible engaged race director I’ve ever seen.
Race is held in Blackwater State Park. I’m sure John Denver was describing this park when he wrote the song “Almost Heaven, West Virginia.” Get your accommodations early and if possible, get one of the Southside cabins. Cozy, secluded, ideal for resting up and recovering from race.
Race starts at 10:00 PM. Only negative -LOTS OF HILLS!!! But the out and back looped road is fine for running in the dark (they shut down traffic in the park) but you will need a headlamp or such as there are no street lights. Very walker friendly because the race doesn’t end until 7:00 AM the next day to accommodate the Ultra-marathon/Distance runners. (4 of us walked the half marathon).
Stay at least a day beforehand and afterwards to be able to enjoy the beauty of the park and the Falls.
In your journey to running in 50 states, this is THE RACE to do for West Virginia!!