Mt Mitchell Challenge and Black Mountain Marathon
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Black Mountain Marathon and Mount Mitchell Challenge : Race Overview
The event consists of two trail races in and around Black Mountain, North Carolina, with the course moving from downtown Black Mountain to Lake Tomahawk and up to the 6,684' summit of Mount Mitchell, described as eastern America's highest point.
- Mount Mitchell Challenge, 36 miles, about 4,500 feet gain
- Black Mountain Marathon, about 3,000 feet gain
Each race is limited to 250 runners, after which a waitlist opens. Marathon runners follow the same route as Challengers to the Blue Ridge Parkway overlook near mile 13, then return to the finish. Challengers continue to Mount Mitchell summit. There is no crew access on course and no drop bags.
Aid stations: the marathon has six stations and the Challenge has ten. Each station will provide at minimum water, electrolytes, salty snacks, and fruit. This is a cupless race; runners must carry their own reusable drinking vessel. Required gear includes a vessel that holds at least 20oz, a rain shell, and a cellphone; runners must present this gear at check in and at aid stations or they will be disqualified.
Awards include cash prizes and custom pottery for top finishers in the male, female, and nonbinary categories. Registration includes a quarter zip technical long sleeve shirt, a sustainable wooden finisher medal, a finisher technical BOCO hat, professional chip timing, stocked aid stations, two beer tickets for the post-race party, and a donation to local organizations.
Refunds are not provided except when a waitlist exists; a partial refund schedule applies if a waitlist is in effect. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
