High 5 at Hanging Rock

Event Overview

The High 5 at Hanging Rock is an annual event held in Hanging Rock State Park, North Carolina, organized by The Friends of Sauratown Mountains to support the park's maintenance and preservation. The event features two distinct distances through the mountain range, categorized as a strenuous hike or run due to significant elevation changes and trail conditions. Registration for the event is capped at 400 participants.

Course Details

Participants travel across diverse park trails to summit several of the highest points in the state park. The route includes natural landmarks such as Moore's Knob and prominent rock outcrops like Wolf Rock and House Rock.

The following distances are available:

• 11 miles: A route summiting Moore's Knob, Cooks Wall, and Hanging Rock mountains.
• 5 miles: A shorter option that summits only Moore's Knob.

The 11-mile distance is not recommended for children under 10 years of age. The 5-mile option is open to younger participants with parental supervision.

Logistics and Support

The event starts and finishes at shelter #4 in the upper lake parking lot of Hanging Rock State Park. The course is supported by marshals at the peaks and a sweep group at the back to monitor participants. Two rest stations provide fluids and light snacks, though carrying personal water bottles is recommended. Support services on the course end by mid-afternoon.

Dogs are permitted to participate with hikers for an additional fee, provided they remain on a leash no longer than six feet and have required vaccinations. Participants receive a bib, a patch, a t-shirt (if registered by the deadline), and a voucher for on-site food trucks. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.