Gristmill Grinder Race Schedule and FAQ

Grinder 2025 - We do not require masks so use your own internal guidance. Be kind and be safe. We will have a mass start - We use Chip timing so your time doesn't start until you cross the mat at the start. This loose start will allow you to start with friends you run with, stay spread out, etc.

Our Aid Stations are at Mile 3, Mile 6 and Mile 11. Water and Electrolite Fuel will be on tables for you to grab and volunteers will be handing you cups. If you have a bottle or other container to fill let the aid station volunteer know and THEY will pour it.

Again, Be Safe and Have Fun!!  Details are below for directions and packet pickup.

Directions to the Park and Lodging

Babcock State Park, WV is located on Route 41, 15 minutes east of the U.S. 19 and Route 60 intersection. Again this year the Park is OPEN on race day! That means that camping and cabins are available at the Park. There are cabins along the course and Glade Creek as well as near the Mann's Gorge overlook. For reservations at the park or more info contact the park at 800-CALL-WVA or go to http://www.babcocksp.com/

Accommodations in the area are plentiful! There are many cabins and campgrounds around the area, just 15-20 minutes away. For more detailed info, use our "Lodging and Area Info" link on the sidebar or contact us by email- we will be happy to help you.

Packet Pickup

We will plan to have two packet pickup options again this year, same as last year.

Option 1: Friday, April 18th, 2025 5:30-6:30pm - @ Ace Adventure Gear in Fayetteville!!! AAG is a super cool shop with trail running shoes, kayaks, fly fishing gear, basically all the gear YOU need for your outdoor pursuits !!

Option 2: Race day morning packet pick up will be from 8:00-9:30 at the Start/Finish area. This will be pretty hectic so shoot for friday if you can.....See directions to Start/Finish area below!!

Directions to the Start/Finish Area-

Enter Babcock State Park at the Main Entrance. Go past the Gristmill, left and up the paved road. Continue past the lake & pool parking lot to the Sugar Camp Run Picnic Area. This will be the Start & Finish for the race.

Remember- Packet pick up will begin at 8:00 am in the morning and go to 9:30.

** There will be NO RACE DAY REGISTRATION !!!

Please note - we will NOT be able to transfer bibs to another runner.....

The Race will start at 10:00 am, the Walk begins at 10:10.

Spectator Access-

There are several great places to hang out and watch the race- and they all have a great view! One is at the Gristmill itself, runners come by early- about 10:15 and then again about an hour later at mile 11.

Two other great spots- when you come into the main entrance you can take the first right to Mann's Creek Gorge Overlook. About a mile up the road you will see a beautiful overlook on your left. The course goes right thru this overlook- it is a great place for photos. The first runners get there about 10:20. If you continue on out the road you will come to another picnic area and overlook - Mann's Creek Gorge Overlook.  Plenty of parking there and it is the 6 mile mark for runners. Be sure and take your camera everywhere you go in the park!!

Post Race Eats

There are several excellent eateries in Fayetteville - Pies & Pints, Bridge Brew Works, The Take Out, Southside Junction and Secret Sandwich to name a few.  Fruit, water and more sports drinks will be at the finish.

We will see you soon! Happy trails....