Lost River Classic

Race Overview

The Lost River Classic returns for its third year on August 15, 2026! Registration opens Christmas Day 2025 at an early bird rate of $65 before going up to $85 on January 2 and $100 on August 1.

Event Details

• Date: Saturday, August 15, 2026 at 9 AM
• Location: 195 Howards Lick Rd, Mathias, WV
• Website: Lost River Classic
• Proceeds: Support trail development in Lost River State Park.

Challenge Level

This is a very challenging event. We recommend gravel bikes with low, almost mountain bike gearing and 38mm+ tires for most riders.

Routes and Prizes

• 85 Mile Route: Mostly gravel, 8500 feet of elevation.
• Medium Route: 60 miles, 6000 feet of climbing, less challenging than the long route.
• Cove Mountain Loop: 28 miles, challenging but avoids major climbs.
• Prizes: Available for Men's, Women's, and Nonbinary Open categories.

Aid Stations

• Aid Station 1: Mile 25 of the medium and long routes.
• Aid Station 2: Mile 43 of the long route only.
• Aid Station 3: Mile 61 of long routes and mile 36 of medium route.
• Aid Station 4: Mile 78 of long route and mile 53 of medium route.

Post-Race Events

• Meal: Includes traditional Hardy County BBQ and vegetarian options.
• Live Music: Featuring CC Nichols and Ben Townsend & Matt Metz.
• Farmer's Market: From 1-5 PM at the Mathias Community Center.
• T-Shirts: One free T-shirt for every participant, with additional shirts available for purchase.

Equipment Requirements

• Helmet: All riders must wear a bicycle helmet.
• Bike Type: Gravel bikes recommended: road bikes are not suggested.
• Water: Bring two full bottles: aid stations have limited supplies.
• Family Ride: Open to any type of bike.

Accommodation Information

Several hotels and B&Bs are nearby including the South Branch Inn, and cabins in Lost River State Park are available with early booking recommended.

Registration Changes

• Transfers: Can be made until August 14 at 5 PM.
• Changes: Route changes allowed with prior notice at the registration table.

Sponsors

Without the generous support of our sponsors, we would not be able to host this event:

• American Woodmark Foundation
• Lost River Pride
• Lost River Trading Post
• South Branch Inn