Hellbender 100
Old Fort, United States • 7 May 2027
Hellbender 100 - Old Fort, NC
The Hellbender 100 is a 100 mile trail race held in Old Fort, North Carolina on May 7, 2027. The course travels through the Black Mountains, descends into surrounding valleys, and reaches the summit of Mt Mitchell. Total elevation change on the course is approximately 48,000+ feet. The event is organized by the RUN828 Foundation, a nonprofit based in Western North Carolina; a portion of proceeds supports local nonprofits that promote outdoor activity.
This event serves as a qualifier for the Hardrock 100 and Western States 100. Registration opens October 1, 2026 at 12:00 PM ET; a waitlist is used if registration fills and entrants are charged only if offered a spot. Qualification to enter requires completion of a 100k with 10,000 feet of vertical gain or any 100 mile event between May 1, 2025 and May 1, 2027, or the Mount Mitchell Heartbreaker 50 miler. Proof may be requested. The race allows pacers.
Runners have 39 hours to finish; cutoffs are enforced at multiple aid stations. Mandatory gear includes lighting, weatherproof jacket, emergency bivy, insulating layers and hat, whistle, calories, hydration carrier 40oz or larger, water purification, cell phone or satellite communicator, and a GPS unit provided by the race. Gear checks are mandatory and enforcement is strict. The race is cupless; participants receive a reusable cup in their swag bag. Refund and deferral policies vary by date and circumstance; certain medical or deployment situations receive full credit. Volunteer service hours are required prior to the race. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.