Looking Glass 100K

Looking Glass 100k in Pisgah Forest, NC

Looking Glass 100k is a single large loop trail race organized by Tanawha Adventures in Pisgah Forest, NC. The course circles Looking Glass Rock and reaches high balds including Black Balsam Knob and Tennent Mountain, with multiple summits above 6,000 ft.

The route is roughly 62 miles with about 10,600 ft of elevation gain and the same amount of elevation loss. Terrain includes smooth and technical singletrack, grassy double track, gravel, and a short section of pavement. The course passes waterfalls and moss-covered streams, some of which require crossings. Aid stations are placed approximately every 4.5 to 9 miles and total nine stations: four full-service stations, three full-service stations with crew access at Full Aid 1, 3, and 5, and two fluid-only stations. Minimum aid station supplies include water, Skratch Labs electrolyte drink, bananas, orange slices, potato chips, pretzels, PB&J, pickles, Snickers, and M&Ms. There are three drop bag locations at full aids 1, 3, and 5.

The event enforces a 20 hour time limit. Runners and pacers must carry specified safety gear at all times including a headlamp with backup, weatherproof jacket, emergency bivy, insulating base layer, warm hat and gloves, emergency whistle, hydration carrier (32 oz or more), and a GPS tracker provided by the race. Mandatory gear checks occur before the race and during the race and organizers may remove participants who do not carry required gear. Packet pickup is on the Friday before the event between 4 and 8 pm and there is a pre-race meeting at 7 pm Friday. Crews may only access full aids 1, 3, and 5 and must service runners within a 50 yard radius. Registration closes November 6 at 11:59 PM ET and the event shows limited availability with a waitlist process. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.