The Naturalist 25K & 50K

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The Naturalist 25K & 50K

Come explore the same trails that William Bartram, "The Naturalist", ventured on in the late 1700's. This ultimate 50k will cover some of the most challenging ground in the Southeast. Runners will leave from downtown Franklin, NC at 8am and travel to the Bartram Trail area on Wallace Branch. Here runners will start the brutal climb that ultimately leads to Wayah Bald. From the Wallace Branch trail head to the top of Wayah Bald is approximately 11 miles. The 25k will have over 5500' of climbing (50k will have over 8,500' of climbing), making your legs feel weak just reading this. There will be multiple stations with food and water. 25K racers will end on Wayah Bald after running up the Bartram Trail. When 50k racers reach Wayah Bald they will circle the bald, resupply then head back down the Bartram Trail. Outdoor 76 will host the post race party with live music, craft beer, food trucks....and awards!

Event details and schedule- Limited to 150 racers (25k & 50k combined)- Cut off #1 - Approx mile 9 at 11am at Harrison Gap.- Cut off #2 - Approx mile 15.5 by 2pm at Wayah Bald Summit. Keep in mind that cutting it close here makes the last cut-off very challenging.- Cut off #3 - Approx 21 mile mark by 3pm at Harrison Gap return.- Limited parking available on Wayah Bald.- Racers are encouraged to carry at least 1 liter of water on the climb from Wallace Branch to Wayah Bald.- 25k racers will have the option for a free shuttle back down to the start.- Race check-in will be Friday, October 3 from 5-8pm AND race day, Saturday morning from 6:30-7:30am at Outdoor 76.- Race will begin promptly at 8am in front of Outdoor 76 on Main Street.- Aid Stations will include the following items: Water, Gatorade, Fruit and Powerbars.- No Refunds or Deferments

The Naturalist 25K & 50K

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The Naturalist 25K & 50K

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