Motorsports tourism coming to West Virginia roads for a good cause this weekend

By Stephen Baldwin, RealWV

How long does it take to get from Seneca Rocks to Point Pleasant? On the “Run for the Hills” fundraiser hosted by Backroads Appalachia, it will take 24 hours on all types of terrain throughout West Virginia. 

“We have over 75 vehicles signed up from across the country,” explains Jed Smith with Backroads Appalachia. “Kias with 31 inch tires all the way up to Ford F250s and Jeep Gladiators with 37 inch tires.” 

They will meet up at Seneca Rocks on Friday evening and begin their 24-hour journey across Appalachian terrain Saturday morning. The exact route won’t be announced until drivers are set to go, but Jed says they will go through places including Thomas, Hillsboro, Thurmond, and Clendenin before finishing up in Point Pleasant on Sunday morning. 

“Drivers will see all sorts of road surface types–pavement, gravel, dirt, mud, rocks, and more,” Jed promises. The route is 585 miles in total. 

’For the kids’

But it isn’t just all fun and games. Run for the Hills is a fundraiser for Children’s Home Society as well. 

“I could have easily fallen into that system as a young man,” Jed says. “I want to do something for the kids that are affected in this state.” 

Children’s Home Society operates across the state providing adoption, foster, advocacy, behavioral health, and casework assistance to children and families. Backroads of Appalachia hopes to raise $10,000 over the weekend. 

Economic Impact

Beyond the support to Children’s Home Society, Backroads of Appalachia expects an economic impact of approximately $100,000 over the weekend. Between overnight stays, food, gas, and supplies, they expect each driver to spend about $300. 

If you’d like to support the effort over the weekend, spectators are welcome. Details can be found via the social media of Backroads of Appalachia.

“We encourage spectators,” Jed says, “however, we ask that they are respectful to the properties they may be on or near.” 

Stay tuned to RealWV for an update after the event.