A Shot in the Dark Night Trail Race

A Shot in The Dark Night Trail Race

A Shot in The Dark is a night trail running event held at the Whitewater Center in Charlotte, NC. The event offers three course distances:

• 5K
• 10K
• Half Marathon

Participants are required to use a headlamp or other illumination while on course. Packet pick-up is scheduled the day before the race at the South Conference Center, with additional day-of packet pick-up available on race day. Registration includes pre-registration and day-of options; fees listed for 2026 are $45/$50 for the 5K, $55/$60 for the 10K, and $80/$85 for the Half Marathon, with the last day to pre-register noted as November 11, 2026. Race shirts are guaranteed for registrations on or before November 2, 2026. Half Marathon finishers who register by October 2, 2026 will receive finisher medals.

All participants must sign the Whitewater Center Assumption of Risk Agreement before participating. Race registration is non-refundable. Trails remain open to other runners, hikers and bikers during the event; participants should communicate when passing and no e-bikes or powered transportation are permitted. Aid stations on course provide hydration only at South Main and East Main. The Whitewater Center may alter, reschedule, or cancel events and does not conduct trail rescues; emergency location markers are on the trail and participants must call 911 if emergency services are needed. Parking at the center carries a daily fee; annual parking passes are available. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.