Hellbender 100

Hellbender 100 - May 8, 2026

The Hellbender 100 is a 100 mile trail race held in Old Fort, North Carolina with the start area at Camp Grier. The course runs through the Black Mountains and reaches the summit of Mt Mitchell. Organizers note a large overall ascent of about 48,000+ feet and say the 2026 route will combine elements of the 2025 course and the original course; a final map will be published as conditions allow.

The event is presented by Run828, a nonprofit. A portion of event proceeds supports local nonprofits that promote outdoor activity. The race is a qualifier for both Hardrock 100 and Western States 100.

Entry is limited and registration has a waitlist policy that charges entrants only if they accept an invitation. Runners must meet a qualification requirement: completion of a 100k with 10,000 feet of vertical gain or any 100 mile event between May 1, 2024 and May 1, 2026, or the Mount Mitchell Heartbreaker 50. Qualification proof may be requested.

Cutoffs give runners 40 hours to finish; specific aid station cutoffs are listed in the Runners Guide. Required gear is strictly enforced and includes items such as a headlamp and backup light, flashing redlight for night road sections, a seam sealed weather proof jacket, emergency bivy, insulating layers, warm hat and gloves, emergency whistle, calories, a 40oz plus hydration carrier, a cell phone or Garmin inReach, and the race GPS unit. The race is cupless; a reusable cup is provided in the swag bag.

A refundable and deferral policy is published with partial refunds available before specified dates and full credit available for certain serious situations. Volunteers are expected to complete eight hours of trail or race related work within the designated period prior to the event. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.