Tsali Ultra - Formerly Tsali Frosty Foot
Welcome to the Tsali Ultra! This event is formerly known as the Tsali Frosty Foot. All events take place on January 17, 2026. We are excited to be hosting the NC USATF North Carolina LDR Championships for the Tsali 50 km Trail Championship. Trail races longer than the traditional marathon distance are considered ultra marathons, thus the Tsali Ultra qualifies as a Mountain, Ultra, Trail event (MUT).
Location & Directions
Location: Tsali Road, Bryson City, NC, US, 28702
Coordinates: 35.4056801, -83.5817022
Directions from Asheville, NC: Take I-40 west to exit 27 onto U.S. 19/74. Stay on U.S. 74 west to NC 28 west. Turn right and go 5 miles, look for Tsali Recreation Area sign on right. Go approximately 1.5 miles to end of road.
Directions from Knoxville, TN: Take U.S. 129 south through Maryville. Stay on U.S. 129 to Deals Gap. Take left onto NC 28 east. Tsali Recreation area sign is 25 miles on left. Go approximately 1.5 miles to end of road.
Directions from Bryson City: Take U.S. 19 south for 9 miles to NC 28 west. Turn right on NC 28. Go 5 miles and look for Tsali recreation Area sign on right. Go approximately 1.5 miles to end of road.
USATF Championship Information
To be eligible for NC USATF championship prize money and awards, the athlete must be a valid 2026 member of USATF and have resided in the State of North Carolina for more than 12 consecutive months. Visit the USATF North Carolina Website for more details.
Important Notes
- PARKING IS VERY LIMITED! PLEASE CARPOOL!!
- This is a CUPLESS RACE! Other than for hot liquids/sodas, you will need to supply your own cup/drinking container!
- Pets are not allowed at any time during this event.
Packet Pickup & Start Times
Packet pickup will start in the boat parking lot Saturday at 6:30 AM EST. Early packet pickup is not available.
Start Times (All times are EST):
- 50K – 8 AM
- 30K – 9 AM
- 8K – 9:30 AM
Cut-offs
- 8K – ALL runners have 7 hours to complete the race
- 30K – ALL runners have 8 hours to complete the race
- 50K – ALL runners 9.5 hours to complete the race.
Course Information
The 50K and 30K courses have some small stream crossings. Depending on how much rain there has been, your feet may get wet. If you get off course, you will need to retrace your steps and get back on course where you left it. Course cutting is not permitted and will be grounds for disqualification.
Aid Stations
Typical fare including PB&J, oranges, gels, snacks, possible hot broth/chocolate, water, sodas, Tailwind sport drink, etc. None of the aid stations can be driven to by runner personal support crews, except for aid station #2 for the 50Kers (a short road walk from the start area). Personal tables, canopies, and such are not permitted.
Drop Bags
50K runners will have access to a drop bag midway through the race, around mile 14. Drop bags should be kept to the size of a small duffle bag/shoebox and clearly labeled with your name and bib number. They can be picked up at the finish area after the Aid Station closes, or you can retrieve it yourself via a short hike.
Crew/Spectators
Spectators are permitted at both the start and finish areas and along County Line Road from the trailhead parking lot up to the Horse Trailer Parking. Spectators must stay out of the way of runners and traffic. Volunteering at an aid station is highly encouraged!
What Will I Get?
- Unique custom finishers award
- Rabbit Long Sleeve Shirts
- Finishers food
Weather
This race is in the middle of winter. Temps average mid 20’s at night and mid to high 40’s during the day. Be prepared for any condition, including cold, rain, or snow. If forecasted conditions are of significant concern, the race may be postponed until the following weekend (decision typically made at least 48 hours prior).
Weather Delay Date
Due to weather conditions, the race is subject to being postponed. The make-up date will be January 31, 2026 (conditions permitting). By registering, you accept the possibility of this make-up date.
Hotels/Cabins/Camping
Stonebrook Lodge
270 Main Street Bryson City NC 28713
Call to Reserve: 828-488-1616 (Mention Tsali Ultra for Race Discount)
Refunds/Deferrals/Transfers
We do not provide refunds, deferments, rollover credits, or transfer of entry fees. Selling or giving your bib to someone else is not permitted. Event registration insurance is recommended.
Tell your friends and get everyone registered. Like our event Facebook page to keep up with the latest happenings. We can’t wait to have you join us for an amazing day at the Tsali Ultra!