If you are looking for races in Charleston, West Virginia, you have come to the right place. Charleston has a growing running scene with 13 races listed in our directory, including 6 upcoming events in 2026. Whether you are lacing up for your first 5K or chasing a new personal record, there is something here for every runner.
Upcoming Races in Charleston, West Virginia
Here is a look at the top upcoming races in Charleston this year. We update our listings weekly so you always have the most current information.
Kick Off To Recovery
Date: August 30, 2026
Lace up for this heartwarming community gathering in Charleston, WV that celebrates recovery journeys with a 5K run or walk, cornhole games, live music, and family-friendly fun alongside food vendors and motivational talks from recovery speakers. Read full details →
Charleston Distance Run
Date: September 4, 2026
Get ready for a tough but beautiful 15-mile route that kicks off at West Virginia’s impressive State Capitol, winds through downtown streets, climbs through charming hillside areas, and finishes along the scenic riverfront. Read full details →
Leah’s Legacy
Date: September 13, 2026
Join the Strickland Family for a heartfelt celebration honoring Leah Strickland’s incredible spirit and competitive passion! On Sunday, September 13, 2026, at 5:00 pm in Charleston, WV, lace up for the 4th Annual Leah’s Legacy event featuring a 5K run, 2-mile walk, and kid’s fun… Read full details →
CAMC Foundation WeCANClimb 5k Trail Run and 2.5 Mile Trail Hike
Date: September 26, 2026
Distance: 5K
# Join us for a fun trail adventure in the beautiful mountains of Charleston, WV, where you’ll support an amazing causehelping children heal and recover with the guidance of dedicated professionals. This event features both a challenging 5k trail run and a more relaxed 2. Read full details →
Kanawha State Forest Half Marathon/7K
Date: October 18, 2026
Distance: Half Marathon
Get ready to lunge into the heart of West Virginia’s natural beauty with this dual-distance running adventure in Kanawha State Forest, where you’ll navigate rolling hills and peaceful wooded trails while soaking in the charm of the region’s legendary folklore. Read full details →
All of the Colors Trail Race or Hike
Date: October 25, 2026
Distance: Trail Run
Get ready to explore Spring Hill Cemetery Park and Arboretum during peak autumn season on this short but intense 4-mile route that climbs over 800 feet through green lanes, woodland single-track, and open ridges. Read full details →
Why Run in Charleston?
Running events in Charleston offer a mix of community fun runs, charity 5Ks, and competitive road races throughout the year. The local running community is active and welcoming to runners of all levels — from first-timers to seasoned racers. Many of these events benefit local charities and organizations, making race day about more than just your finish time.
Find More Races in West Virginia
Charleston is just one part of a thriving West Virginia running scene. If you want to explore more events across the state, check out our full race listings for West Virginia — we track every upcoming running event from 1 mile fun runs to full marathons.
Get Ready to Race
Found a race you want to run? The next step is making sure you are properly trained for it. Whether you are a first-timer aiming to finish or a veteran chasing a PR, having the right training plan makes all the difference.
Take our free 3-question training plan quiz and get matched to the right plan for your fitness level in under a minute. We will send it straight to your inbox so you can start training today.
Good luck out there — see you at the finish line in Charleston!
