The Naturalist - Franklin, NC
Franklin, United States • 3 Oct 2026
Event Overview
The Naturalist Trail Race is part of the Outdoor 76 Fall Celebration. The event features two trail running distances on a historic course.
Course and Distances
The race begins in downtown Franklin, North Carolina. The route follows the historic Bartram Trail, tracing a path explored in the late 1700s. The course leads runners toward Wallace Branch and includes a significant ascent to Wayah Bald.
The two available distances are:
- 25K: Approximately 5,500 feet of elevation gain, finishing at the Wayah Bald summit.
- 50K: Exceeds 8,500 feet of elevation gain, circling Wayah Bald before descending back along the trail.
Aid Stations
Hydration and nutrition are provided at multiple aid stations. These stations offer water, electrolyte drinks, fruit, energy bars, and other snacks. Runners are advised to carry at least one liter of water for the ascent to Wayah Bald.
Aid stations are located at:
- Mile 3.5 (Wallace Branch) - limited aid.
- Mile 9 (Harrison Gap).
- Mile 14.5 (Wayah Bald summit).
- Mile 19.5 (Harrison Gap return, for the 50K only).
- Mile 25 (Wallace Branch return, for the 50K only).
Logistics
The combined field limit for both distances is 150 entrants. Parking at Wayah Bald is limited. A free shuttle back to the start is available for 25K runners on race day.
Check-in is available on Friday evening at the Outdoor 76 store and on Saturday morning at the race site. The race starts on Main Street in front of Outdoor 76.
Post-Race
After the race, there will be live music, craft beer, and food available from food trucks. Awards will be presented. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.