High Country Turkey Trot 10k
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High Country Turkey Trot
The High Country Turkey Trot is a Thanksgiving morning running event held on the Boone Greenway Trail and Kennedy Trails. For 2026 the course was revised to be wider and to use stable mixed terrain including gravel, grass, and paved surfaces. The route crosses a river and goes through wooded sections, and the course notes indicate moderate elevation gain without dramatic downhill sections.
Race options:
- 5K timed trail race
- 10K timed trail race
- 5K untimed Fun Run/Walk
The Fun Run/Walk uses paved trails and is described as accessible to leashed dogs, strollers, wagons, wheelchairs, and other mobility aids. The event includes on-site features such as a live DJ, a photo-staging area, costume elements, and a picnic shed with food and hot drinks. All finishers receive a custom High Country Turkey Trot finisher medal, and age-group and overall winners receive additional custom items; overall male and female winners of the 5K and 10K receive a pumpkin pie from Stick Boy Bread Company.
Packet pickup is scheduled the day before the race at the Watauga Housing & Outreach Center, 160 Den-Mac Drive, Boone, NC. Participants are asked to bring non-perishable boxed or canned food items. The event is organized by Hospitality House and takes place in Boone, North Carolina. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
