Moonlight on the Falls Marathon 2025

• Nighttime Race: Starts at 10 PM in Blackwater Falls State Park for a unique under-the-stars experience.
• Safety Gear: Reflective vests and headlamps are mandatory; roads closed to outside traffic.
• Course Layout: 6.55-mile loop with aid stations, begins and ends at Pendleton Point.
• Distance Options: Quarter, Half, Full Marathons, plus Distance Challenge for solo or team.
• Festival Vibes: Pre-race activities with live music, vendors, and food create a lively atmosphere.

The Moonlight on the Falls Marathon is a truly unique running experience, offering a nighttime race through the serene beauty of Blackwater Falls State Park. Set in the mountain town of Davis, West Virginia, this marathon features a USATF-certified course starting and ending at Pendleton Point. Runners complete multiple loops, including a challenging out-and-back segment with a steep trail section leading to the falls.

What sets this marathon apart is its stunning setting and the rare opportunity to race under the stars, benefiting from the cool late summer night temperatures averaging 55 degrees Fahrenheit. The event also cultivates a lively festival atmosphere, complete with a pre-race party featuring live music, vendors, and food, ensuring a celebratory mood both before and after the race.

A distinctive feature is the Distance Challenge, which encourages both solo participants and teams to see how many laps they can complete within the set timeframe, adding an adventurous twist for competitive runners. The thoughtful course support includes four well-stocked aid stations and options for runners to set up personal aid stations, ensuring optimal hydration and nourishment throughout their run.

Participants are rewarded with top three overall awards in male and female categories across all distances. Age group awards, finisher medals specific to the distance, and a stylish blended hoodie are among the highlights of the race swag.

The event is designed as a destination race experience, offering a combination of challenging running, natural beauty, and community spirit, making it a must-do for marathon enthusiasts seeking something beyond the usual city marathon experience.

Prepare for temperatures ranging from the mid-50s to mid-60s°F (13-18°C) during the Moonlight on the Falls Marathon in Davis, West Virginia, in late August. Expect high humidity and moderate cloud cover, with the possibility of rain, as August is one of the wettest months. Light winds averaging 4 mph should not significantly impact your run.

The Moonlight on the Falls Marathon offers a truly unique running experience, set against the stunning backdrop of Blackwater Falls State Park in West Virginia. This USATF-certified course begins and ends at Pendleton Point, taking runners on a mostly out-and-back journey with a notable twist on the return. Runners face a thrilling descent to Blackwater Falls via a steep trail that mixes pavement and gravel, adding a challenging element to the race.

As the marathon kicks off at 10 pm, participants are enveloped in the magic of nighttime running, equipped with high-visibility vests and headlamps for safety. The course is structured in 6.55-mile loops, allowing Quarter Marathon, Half Marathon, and Marathon runners to experience the terrain multiple times, with the added advantage of spectators cheering them on at various points.

Strategic planning is key, especially for those tackling the Distance Challenge, where personal aid stations can be set up along the first and last mile. The event's festival atmosphere, complete with live music, vendors, and food, enhances the experience, making it a memorable destination for both runners and spectators alike.

Davis, West Virginia, is a treasure trove of outdoor adventure and cultural charm, making it an ideal destination for those attending the Moonlight on the Falls Marathon. Nestled within Blackwater Falls State Park, visitors can marvel at the park's namesake waterfall, renowned for its striking amber hue, and enjoy a network of trails that cater to hiking and mountain biking enthusiasts. The nearby Dolly Sods Wilderness Area and Monongahela National Forest offer breathtaking landscapes and endless opportunities for exploration.

Beyond the natural beauty, Davis and its neighboring town, Thomas, provide a vibrant cultural scene. These quaint mountain towns boast unique shops, cozy restaurants, and art galleries that showcase the talents of local artisans. The area's rich music scene adds to the Appalachian allure, with venues hosting a variety of performances that capture the local sound.

While in town, immerse yourself in the local hospitality by sampling the regional cuisine and engaging with the community during the marathon's festival-like pre-race activities. With its blend of outdoor pursuits and cultural experiences, Davis promises a memorable visit for any marathon traveler.