Information
In Greek mythology, Cerberus is a THREE-headed dog who guards the gates of Hades.
In adventure racing, Cerberus is the THREE-day stage race that we think will be pretty dog-gone fun!
The second Cerberus Expedition Stage Race will take place from May 7-11, 2026 at Wilderness Adventure (11176 Peaceful Valley Rd, New Castle, VA 24127). The unique setup of this event allows racers to experience the thrill of multi-day racing without all of the sleep deprivation and dependency on a diet of solely sports nutrition. Each day will feature a unique course which allows teams up to 12 hours to complete and features a specific race discipline (paddling, cycling, trekking), though you will do several disciplines each day. There will be plenty of navigational challenges as well. The course will be designed to challenge both beginners and more advanced racers.
For 2026, we are requiring PACK RAFTS rather than canoes, so variable May water levels won't be as much of a factor. Consequentially, we are allowng solos to race this year as well.
Race registration fees are PER PERSON.
Racers will enjoy a prepared breakfast each day before the race. After each day's race is complete, teams will be able to clean up, enjoy a communal dinner, and then retire to their lodging to recover for the next day. Winners for each day's race will be recognized and the champions (Tamer of Cerberus) will be crowned on Sunday based upon the highest cumulative points collected in the lowest cumulative time.
We loved how last year's race turned out and look forward to seeing many of you again!
We've taken your feedback to heart and as a result, we have arranged an improvement in the lodging available and the food being provided. We think you'll approve of these changes!
Select Your Team
2-Person Team
3-Person Team
4-Person Team
Volunteers
Location
Wilderness Adventure at Eagle Landing
11176 Peaceful Valley Rd
New Castle, VA 24127 US
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Lodging
Tent camping (or a RV/Pop-up spot) for your stay is included in the race registration fees. Wildnerness Adventure has a limited number of beds (76) available to racers for an additional fee ($45/night; $180 total). You will select and pay for your rooms during the registration process. These rooms are VERY NICE but a bit on the small side. First come, first served!
We strongly encourage all racers to stay on-site to ensure consistent communication of any course changes during the event.
Racers wishing to stay in more refined accomodations will find numerous options in the cities along Route 81 (Pulaski, Dublin, Radford, Whytheville, Blacksburg, etc.) but consider the drive time (30 minutes minimum) to get to and from these accomodations each morning and evening.
Disciplines Involved
Racers should expect all the standard modes of transit for this stage race:
- Trekking (on and off-trail)
- Mountain Biking (Singletrack, doubletrack, gravel roads, pavved roads)
- Paddling (Class I/II moving water)
- BYOP (Bring your own packraft)
- To make things a little more interesting, all paddling this year will be with packrafts. Racers must provide their own packraft(s).
- Maybe some surprises thrown in there as well!
Food
We will be providing breakfast and dinner on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. The food at Wilderness Adventure is EXCELLENT!
An a la carte cantina is available for on-site dining Thursday evening (not included in race registration fees).
At a minimum, you should expect a omnivore meal with vegetarian options. Meals will be simple but nutritious. As we get closer to the event we will announce a more specific menu.
Race Affiliations
The Cerberus Expedition Stage Race is a USARA-affiliated race. Therefore, teams can earn nationa ranking points based upon their final standings in the three-day event.
The Cerberus Expedition Stage Race is also proud to be part of the Adventure Racing World Series North America region race calendar. All teams of 2-4 people may earn points towards their ARWS world ranking.
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