Ridge to Rails - Old Fort, NC

Event details

The Ridge to Rails event in Old Fort, North Carolina offers three trail race distances:

• 50k
• Half Marathon
• 10k

The 50k is a single large loop using a mix of new and existing trails in the Mill Creek Valley and nearby Forest Service roads. The half marathon is a net downhill point-to-point trail race that follows ridge and connector trails into the Old Fort Gateway Trail system. The 10k is a figure-8 loop through the Old Fort Gateway trails with short gravel connectors. Courses include a mix of smooth and technical trail, gravel stretches, and multiple scenic viewpoints. Reported elevation figures are approximately: 50k gain/loss ~5,700 ft, half gain ~1,200 ft and loss ~2,600 ft, 10k gain/loss ~750 ft. Time limits are listed as about 11 hours for the 50k, 4 hours for the half, and 2.5 hours for the 10k. Aid stations: five on the 50k (mileages pending), two on the half (miles 5.6 and 9.5), and one on the 10k (mile 3).

Logistics and rules

Packet pickup is available on the race weekend Friday evening at Hillman Brewery in Old Fort (5:00pm–8:00pm) or on race morning starting at 6:00am at the race start. Parking is organized at Camp Grier. Half-marathon runners are required to use the shuttle to the start; there is no parking at the half start. Spectators may view runners along Jarrett Creek Road and at the finish, with about a one-mile hike in from the finish area; spectators are not allowed at other course points and are not permitted at the half start. Race rules include staying on marked trails, checking into all aid stations, no pacers, yielding to other trail users, and informing a race official and turning in a bib if withdrawing. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.