Rootrock Trail Run
Fearrington, United States • 17 Oct 2026
Rootrock Trail Run
The Rootrock Trail Run at Briar Chapel in Chapel Hill, NC, stages 5K, 10K, and Half Marathon trail races on root- and rock-strewn single track through a large community of forested trails. The event uses Great Meadow Park as the start-and-finish area and includes race-day support and amenities.
Distances offered:
- 5K: exact 3.3 miles, 222' elevation gain, overall technical rating 2+ of 5.
- 10K: exact 6.2 miles, 438' elevation gain, overall technical rating 3 of 5.
- Half Marathon: exact 13.1 miles, 960' elevation gain, overall technical rating 3+ to 4- of 5.
Course details note a mix of pavement, double-track, and single-track sections. The 5K begins with about 0.45 mile of pavement and is less technical than the longer distances. The 10K includes a brief pavement start and then extended single-track through valleys and climbs. The Half Marathon follows the 10K terrain plus additional western trails with steeper climbs and more technical rock and root sections.
Event services include frequent aid stations roughly every 1-2 miles, chip timing, medical support, a race tee and finisher medal, post-race food and beverages, a professional photographer with free photo downloads, and an awards program with age-group and overall prizes. A free kids race for ages 11 and under is held near the staging area with age-grouped starts and small prizes. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.