Our Spring half-marathon trail run at Babcock State Park in West Virginia, the Gristmill Grinder has become an icon in the West Virginia Trail Running scene! We are already super excited about our 2026 event! Come run with us & enjoy the spectacular overlooks, rhododendron tunnels, waterfalls, cliffs, bridges and always amazing scenery.

Sooooo, what are you waiting for? Reserve your spot today- this run will have only 250 slots, and fill quickly.  Babcock is Almost Heaven!

See you in April--

Event details and schedule

Babcock Gristmill Grinder Event Schedule

Packet pickup:

Friday evening - location to be announced

Saturday morning at the Start/ Finish Line, Sugar Creek Picnic Area from 8-9:15am

Directions to Finish area:

Enter Babcock State Park from Route 41 at the main entrance. Continue straight toward the Gristmill. Go past the Mill and on toward Sugarcamp Picnic Area. Packet pickup from 8-9:15 and Race will start at 10:00. The Walk will start at 10:10. There is a NEW playground here for the little ones!!

Weather:

This is spring in the mountains! Along with beautiful new green leaves you can also expect cool weather. Actually the average weather in April here can be anything so keep an eye on forecasts and pack accordingly. We will update you as we are close to the day.

Lodging and more info:

Lodging is available at the park with cabins and camping. There are many other options as well in the area. For more info go to our site, we have links to some of our recommended partners.