The Naturalist Trail Race - 25K & 50K
Part of Outdoor 76’s Fall Celebration, this exhilarating trail run follows the historic Bartram Trail. The course starts in downtown Franklin, NC, leading runners on a challenging ascent toward Wayah Bald.
Distances Offered:
- 25K: Approximately 5,500 feet of elevation gain.
- 50K: Exceeds 8,500 feet of gain, circling Wayah Bald.
Aid & Support:
Hydration and nutrition stations are available along the course. Runners are advised to carry at least 1 liter of water. Stations are located at:
- Mile 3.5 (Wallace Branch) - limited aid
- Mile 9 (Harrison Gap)
- Mile 14.5 (Wayah Bald summit)
- Mile 19.5 (Harrison Gap return, 50k only)
- Mile 25 (Wallace Branch return, 50k only)
Race Logistics & Cutoffs:
- Field Limit: 150 entrants (combined distances).
- Parking: Limited at Wayah Bald.
- Shuttle: Free shuttle for 25K runners back to the start.
- Cutoffs: Specific times are set for Mile 9, Mile 14.5, and Mile 19.5.
Check-in:
- Friday, October 3: 5:00–8:00 PM (at Outdoor 76)
- Saturday, October 4: 6:30–7:30 AM (on-site)
Race Start:
Saturday, October 3, 2026, at 8:00 AM in front of Outdoor 76 on Main Street.
Post-Race Festivities:
Celebrate with live music, craft beer, food trucks, and awards.
- Schedule:
- 8am - Start of The Naturalist 25/50k trail run
- 12pm to 6pm - Food served by Woof Street Bistro
- 1pm to 3pm - Live Music by The Brue
- 4pm to 6pm - Live Music by Denim Arcade
Important Policies:
No refunds or deferrals. Assumption of risk waiver required.
