The Cherokee - Tellico Plains, TN

Event details

The Cherokee takes place on July 18, 2026, in Tellico Plains, Tennessee. The start and finish are at Tellico Plains High School. The event offers multiple trail distances with significant elevation gain and time cutoffs.

• 130K - 85 miles; 19,000+ ft gain; 26-hour strict cutoff; field cap; 50K+ finish in past 18 months required.
• 70K - 46 miles; 10,000+ ft gain; 16-hour soft cutoff.
• Waucheesi Vert Challenge - 24 miles; 5,000 ft climb and 5,000 ft descent; summit of Waucheesi.

Course, logistics and rules

The course uses trails and historic routes in the Cherokee National Forest, including Warrior's Passage, Waucheesi Tower, Buck Bald, the Benton MacKaye Trail, the John Muir Trail, the Hiwassee River and Reliance, and the Historic Unicoi Turnpike. Aid stations are described as themed by day and lantern-lit at night. A finisher celebration takes place at Tellico Plains High School.

Awards are given to the top three male and female finishers in each distance. Registered finishers receive a finisher buckle and swag if registered before June 1. The Cherokee Double Buckle is awarded for completing the 130K twice. Mandatory gear includes a water filter, GPX file on device (paper map recommended), antihistamine, headlamp for the entire race, and a whistle. The event policy states no refunds or deferrals. Registration opens September 1 and closes July 17. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.