The Cherokee - Tellico Plains, TN

The Cherokee - Tellico Plains, TN

The Cherokee is a mountain ultramarathon held in Tellico Plains, Tennessee, within the Cherokee National Forest. The event offers multiple course options across rugged terrain and features notable trails, river crossings, and historic routes.

Distances include:

• 130K - 85 miles, 19,000+ ft gain, 26-hour cutoff, limited field, eligibility 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

Course highlights listed for the event include Warrior’s Passage, Waucheesi Tower, Buck Bald, Benton MacKaye Trail, John Muir Trail, Hiwassee River and Reliance, and sections of the historic Unicoi Turnpike.

The event description notes themed aid stations by day and lantern-lit stations at night, a finish area celebration at Tellico Plains High School, and local desserts and baked goods available at the finish. Live coverage is planned on YouTube with real-time tracking and runner interviews.

Mandatory gear requirements are specified and must be carried by all runners, including a water filter, GPX file on watch or phone (paper map recommended), antihistamine for stings, a headlamp for the entire race, and a whistle.

Awards include top three male and female in each distance, finisher buckle and swag (with registration deadline conditions), and a double-buckle recognition for completing the 130K twice. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.