New River Trail Challenge Triathlon

Presented by

Sept. 19, 2026
Part of the Virginia State Parks Adventure Series

Registration opens December 1, 2025.

Welcome to Virginia's longest and longest-running adventure triathlon. First held in 2000 as a small, local event, the Challenge now attracts competitors from all across the country. With many racers still competing from the early years the Challenge still has that family feel of days past and maintains its reputation as one of Virginia's friendliest events. Located in beautiful Southwest Virginia's New River Trail State Park, the race attracts athletes of all fitness levels competing in various age groups and categories, from hardcore solo competitors to "bucket-listers" of all ages.

The Race | Registration | Useful Links

winners from the 2025 NRT Challenge

This is getting ridiculous...Ladies and Gents, I present our Individual Winners for the third year in a row, Fran Hughes and Trent Koopman!

The Race

The race consists of three stages along and in the New River. The trail is flat with a crushed cinder surface, and the river flows smoothly with small rapids under normal conditions. The race begins with a 40-mile out and back bike leg, followed by a 12.1-mile downriver kayak paddle, and ends with a half marathon run along the river for a total of 65.2 miles. Although the race is long, it's perfect for both beginners and accomplished athletes due to its flattish nature.

Participants may compete solo or in teams of two or three.

We ask that you thoroughly read the rules and guidelines before the race. They cover stage meeting times, transitions, requirements, courses, water and aid stations, and recommendations to make your race as trouble-free as possible. If you have any questions, please post them on the Facebook page — the New River Trail family is a friendly group, and someone from Virginia State Parks or the community will be happy to provide answers. You can also contact Steve Boyd with questions.

Overall male and female winners will receive a $250 gift Virginia State Parks gift certificate, with a $300 gift certificate awarded to the fastest team. Certificates are good for annual passes, camping and cabins at Virginia State Parks.

The Friends of New River Trail will once again serve delicious "backyard barbeque style" meals with the proceeds used to fund special projects at the park. Creek Bottom Brewing Company will return with premium brews, with two beverages included in the registration fee. Food and drink will be available between noon and 6 p.m. Hot showers will be available for those camping on Friday and on race day.

Be sure to join the New River Trail Challenge Triathlon Facebook group. It contains useful tips, updates, and race info. The Facebook page is also a great place to ask questions, find teammates, post relevant gear for sale, and stay updated on the race's latest news.

Team Old but Good

Even with a low, low river “Old But Good” became the first team ever to break the 5-hour mark with a wicked fast 4:56:46. Congrats!

Registration Information

Registration includes the following

Finisher’s medal
Quality microfiber shirt
Awards
2 Beers
Snacks and Drinks along course
Kayak transport back to Foster Falls

*Food will be available for purchase following the race; however, it is not included as part of registration. Proceeds benefit the Friends of New River Trail.

Registration opens December 1

Discounted Fee Deadline: May 31 at 11:59 p.m. EST
Second Fee Deadline: July 31 at 11:59 p.m. EST

Individual
$90 through May 31 
$105 June 1 through July 31
$115 August 1 through race day*  

Team
$240 through May 31 
$265 June 1 through July 31 
$295 August 1 through race day*  

No cancellations

*T-shirts will only be guaranteed for those registering before August 15.

Katie Schmid

We love our Flamingo’s! Kate Schmid hanging tough and finishing in the dark, great job Katie!

Directions

From I-77, take Exit 24, go east on Route 69 to Route 52 (Fort Chiswell Road), go north to Route 608 (Foster Falls Road), go east and follow the brown park signs into the Foster Falls Access.