Supporting the Running Lifestyle
Supporting the Running Lifestyle
West Volusia Runners promotes health and wellness and movement of any kind. We are committed to the growth and development of our members through teamwork and motivation. We create a social and safe environment. Through collaboration with the running community we devote ourselves to charitable causes. We strive to set an example for our children and community.
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Deland, FL
West Volusia Runners isn't just a club — it's a full-blown trail-running movement rooted in endurance, friendship, and deep respect for Florida's wild landscapes. Based in the heart of West Volusia, we organize weekly group runs across DeLand, Lake Helen, and the breathtaking Tiger Bay State Forest. Our routes wind through shaded oak canopies, pine flatwoods, spring-fed creeks, and rolling sandy ridges — offering everything from technical single-track to fast gravel sections. Whether you're chasing a 5K PR, training for your first 25K, or dialing in nutrition for a 100-mile ultra, you'll find both challenge and camaraderie here.
By the numbers: 800+ active members, 15 professionally marked trails, 12 unique route variations, and over 450 organized runs per year. Our flagship event — the "Volusia Volcano Run" — throws down 16 miles of mixed terrain with nearly 1,000 feet of elevation gain, while the "Full Moon Trail Series" turns night running into a ritual (headlamps and glow sticks highly encouraged).
Terrain & wildlife: Expect soft forest floor, roots, short but punchy climbs, and occasional sandy washes. Tiger Bay is home to deer, gopher tortoises, bobcats, and countless bird species — you might even spot a bald eagle overhead. The sunrise view from the Bombing Range Ridge alone is worth the early alarm: golden mist over an ocean of pines, with zero road noise.
Beyond running: We finish every long run with coffee, pancakes, and stories. New to trail? We offer beginner-friendly navigation workshops, gear clinics (shoes, hydration vests, poles), and guided easy-paced groups. For the speedsters, there's tempo Wednesdays and hill-repeat Thursdays. Ultra-runners get supported long runs with aid stations and crew practice.
Weekly rhythm: Wednesday — tempo on gravel (6–8 km). Saturday — long run (15–32 km) with full sweep support. Sunday — recovery shuffle followed by brunch. Monthly specials: night navigation drills, first-aid for trail, and "dial your pack" gear night. Plus seasonal fat-ass runs, summer sunrise relays, and a holiday ugly-sweater 5K that's become legendary.
2024–2025 impact: Our community logged over 150,000 collective miles last year. Female membership grew by 32% in six months. 89% of new members say they tried trail running for the first time with WVR and never looked back. Average 10K trail pace sits at 8:45/mile, but we celebrate the back-of-the-pack finisher just as loudly as the podium winner.
Join the pack: No matter if you're lacing up for your first ever trail mile or fine-tuning your 50K strategy — West Volusia Runners has a place for you. Just show up at the DeLand Trailhead parking lot every Saturday at 7:00 AM (or check our calendar for midweek options). Bring water, a smile, and willingness to get dust on your shoes. We run farther, stronger, and happier — together.
