Mount Cheaha 50K

Mount Cheaha 50K event

The event is a point-to-point trail ultramarathon of 50K that finishes in Cheaha State Park at the summit of Cheaha Mountain, at 2,407 feet. The course runs mostly on single-track trails (about 80%) on the Pinhoti Trail, Skyway Trail and Silent Trail through the Talladega National Forest. The route includes scenic overlooks, creek crossings, lakes, waterfalls, and hardwood and pine forests. A time limit of 9 hours 30 minutes applies.

Logistics and race services

Registration closes on Mon, Feb 23. Packet pickup is scheduled the day before at Coldwater Mountain Brewpub in downtown Anniston (1208 Walnut Ave) and on race morning at the Porters Gap Trailhead. Bus tickets are available for purchase; buses depart from the Cheaha State Park overflow parking area. Parking at Porters Gap is limited and vehicles must be removed once the race begins. Crew passes for Cheaha State Park must be paid in advance and paid in cash on arrival - fees listed for adults, children and seniors; active and retired military and veterans are free. Restrooms at the start include three porta potties.

There are six aid stations along the course:

• Aid 1 Chandler Springs - 3.3 miles - water only
• Aid 2 Clairmont - 8.5 miles
• Aid 3 Adams Gap - 14.8 miles
• Aid 4 Hubbard Creek - 18.8 miles
• Aid 5 Silent Trail - 25.8 miles - water only
• Aid 6 Cheaha Lake - 28.5 miles Finish Line - 31.6 miles

Results will be posted online. Awards include top 3 overall male and female, masters and grand masters, and a medal for all finishers. Race rules state no refunds, no race-day registration, no entry transfers, and no deferrals. Strollers, animals, bicycles and unentered runners are not allowed on course; pets should be kept at least 50 feet from aid stations and start/finish areas. Camping is available at Cheaha State Park and nearby hotels are listed in Talladega and Oxford. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.