Virginia Mud Run & Obstacle Race Calendar 2025-2026

The Face the Forest 5K Obstacle Course Race takes place at Thomas Jefferson’s Poplar Forest plantation in Lynchburg, Virginia. This 3.1-mile race challenges participants with various obstacles and mud along a scenic course through the historic grounds. The event features competitive waves for elite individual and team runners competing for cash prizes, as well as non-competitive waves where obstacles are optional, making it accessible for all skill levels.

Corporate teams can also participate. Registration fees support educational programming at Poplar Forest. Packet pickup is available the day before and race day.

The race emphasizes teamwork and adventure in a unique forest setting. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.

The Unicorn Warrior Obstacle Course Race Series will take place in Roanoke on Saturday 23 August 2025.

Run Wild Races is a bi-annual running event held at the Metro Richmond Zoo in Moseley, Virginia, supporting animal conservation efforts, particularly for vulnerable lions. The event offers three main race options: a 1-mile fun run, a 5k all-terrain race, and the Wild Ninja, an approximately 2-mile obstacle course inspired by American Ninja Warrior challenges. Participants race through zoo pathways and trails, encountering sights of rhinos, zebras, cheetahs, and other exotic animals. After finishing, runners receive free zoo admission, while spectators get a discount. The races combine fitness, fun, and wildlife awareness, with all net proceeds benefiting lion conservation projects. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.

The Unicorn Warrior Obstacle Course Race Series will take place in Roanoke on Saturday 27 September 2025.

The Virginia Spartan Event Weekend, held at Massanutten Resort in Virginia's Blue Ridge Mountains, offers a challenging obstacle course race through rugged terrain and dense forests. Participants navigate steep inclines, rocky paths, and open fields, testing endurance and strength amid scenic backcountry trails rich in history. The event features multiple race distances including a 5K Sprint with 20 obstacles, a 10K Super with 25 obstacles, and a kids' race ranging from 1 to 3 kilometers. The course suits both beginners and seasoned racers, providing a dynamic mountain adventure with crisp air and demanding technical terrain. Team racing and military discounts are available. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.

Run Wild Races X @ the Metro Richmond Zoo Spring is a family-friendly running event held in Moseley, Virginia, featuring multiple race options including a Mini 1 Mile, a 5k, and a Wild Ninja obstacle course. Participants run through the Metro Richmond Zoo, enjoying views of animals like rhinos, zebras, and cheetahs along the course. The 5k is an all-terrain race that loops through the zoo and around its perimeter, while the Wild Ninja offers a challenging 2-mile obstacle course with Ninja Warrior-style elements. All participants receive free zoo entry on race day, and spectators get a discount on admission, creating a fun and engaging atmosphere for all ages. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.