Quest for the Crest 50k

Quest for the Crest : Burnsville, NC (May 16-17, 2026)

Quest for the Crest is a mountain trail race event offering multiple point-to-point distances that use trails around Mt Mitchell. The courses emphasize sustained climbing, rocky and root-filled terrain, and exposed summit sections. The 50K route includes multiple peaks and reaches the Mt Mitchell summit. The 25K and the new 11K follow portions of the same corridor and also finish at high elevations.

Course characteristics include very large total vertical gain, technical footing that requires hands-on climbing in places, and sections where ropes are used. Course support varies by distance: aid station maps, cutoff information, and an aid breakdown are available for each race. Water access on some sections requires runners to carry water or use a filter; the 11K requires at least 1 litre of water or a water filter and provides a finish-line drop bag transported to the summit. All runners are provided a mandatory shuttle ride to the start.

Finishers and entrants receive event items: a pint glass and hat or beanie for all entrants, free race photos, and medals for 50K finishers. The event enforces a refund and credit policy based on cancellation timing and offers pregnancy and military order deferrals with two-year credit. Organizers advise that these courses are not suitable for first-time trail racers and present real safety risks on steep, technical terrain. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.