In The Heat Of The Night
Anniston, United States • 8 Aug 2026
About the Race
In The Heat Of The Night is a trail running event held in Anniston, Alabama. The course is a loop on maintained dirt and gravel forest roads within the Talladega National Forest, surrounded by woods and near the Pinhoti Trail. It starts at the Frog Pond Overlook. The event direction alternates yearly: in even-numbered years, the course runs counter-clockwise; in odd-numbered years, it runs clockwise.
Distances
The event offers multiple distances:
- 100K - A four-loop course with approximately 7,920 feet of elevation gain. There is an 18-hour cutoff.
- 50K - A two-loop course with approximately 3,950 feet of elevation gain. There is a 10-hour cutoff.
- 25K - A one-loop course with approximately 1,980 feet of elevation gain. There is a 6-hour cutoff.
- 10K - An out-and-back course (not the loop) with 596 feet of elevation gain. There is a 4-hour cutoff.
All races begin simultaneously.
Course Support and Rules
There are three fully stocked aid stations (with warm food at night) and one water-only station on the loop. The event is cupless, so runners must provide their own cup or bottle. Registration is limited to 200 spots, and the race typically sells out. There are no refunds, deferrals, or transfers. In case of a forest fire or natural disaster, registration is deferred to the following year.
Awards and Amenities
All finishers receive a handmade amulet for their specific distance. Top three male and female finishers in each distance receive handmade awards. All registrants receive a race t-shirt if registered by the shirt deadline. 100K runners receive a BOCO trucker hat with registration; runners of other distances may purchase one. A "Double Down Challenge" is offered for 100K runners who complete the race in consecutive years (running both directions), earning a special coin.
Post-Race and Other Details
The finish line features music, food, and beverages. Packet pickup is available on race day at the start location. A percentage of race registration fees is donated to the Talladega National Forest. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.