The Cherokee - Tellico Plains, TN

Event Distances

The event offers three distances:

• 130K (85 miles)
• 70K (46 miles)
• Waucheesi Challenge (24 miles)

Course Details

The routes take place in the Cherokee National Forest near Tellico Plains, Tennessee. They follow historic paths, including sections of the Benton MacKaye Trail and John Muir Trail. The course passes landmarks such as the Hiwassee River, Reliance, and Buck Bald, and traces part of the Historic Unicoi Turnpike. All distances involve significant elevation gain, with the 130K featuring over 19,000 feet of climbing, the 70K featuring 10,000 feet, and the Waucheesi Challenge featuring 5,000 feet of climb and descent, including a summit of Waucheesi.

Event Information

The start and finish location is Tellico Plains High School. There are strict cutoff times: 26 hours for the 130K and 16 hours for the 70K. The 130K requires runners to have finished a 50K or longer race within the previous 18 months. An early start option exists for the 130K, but it is not eligible for awards. Aid stations offer food and support, with a finisher celebration at the high school. Top 3 male and female finishers in each distance receive awards, and all finishers receive a buckle and swag if registered by June 1.

Mandatory Gear

All runners must carry specific gear, including a water filter, a headlamp for the entire race, a whistle, antihistamine, and the course GPX file on a device.

Registration

Registration opens on September 1st. The event has a no refunds or deferrals policy. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.