Hellbender 100

Event overview

Hellbender 100 is a 100-mile trail race held at Camp Grier near Old Fort, North Carolina (985 Camp Grier Rd). Distances offered:

• 100 miles (pacer allowed)

The course runs through the Black Mountains and deep valleys and includes the summit of Mt. Mitchell. The route has an approximate total elevation change of ~48,000+ ft. For 2026 the organizer plans an alternative course combining sections used in 2025 and the original course; a course map will be published when conditions are clear. The event is presented by Run828, a nonprofit; a portion of proceeds is directed to nonprofits. The race is a qualifier for Hardrock 100 and Western States 100.

Entry, requirements and race details

Registration may fill and a waitlist will be used; waitlisted entrants are not charged unless offered an entry. Qualification requires completion of a 100k with 10,000 ft of vertical gain or any 100-mile event between May 1, 2024 and May 1, 2026, or the Mount Mitchell Heartbreaker 50. Entrants may register before completing a qualifier. The race has a 40-hour overall time limit and enforces cutoffs at multiple aid stations.

Mandatory gear must be carried by runners and pacers at all times; required items include headlamp and backup light, flashing rear light for night road sections, seam-sealed weatherproof jacket, emergency bivy, insulating base layer, warm hat and gloves, whistle, calories, a 40 oz+ hydration carrier, cell phone or satellite device, and a race GPS unit. The event is cupless; a reusable cup is included in the swag bag. Eight hours of volunteer work must be completed between 5/11/2025 and 5/1/2026. Refund and deferral policies are published by the organizer. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.