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The Naturalist - Franklin, NC

Franklin, United States • 3 Oct 2026

The Naturalist - Franklin, NC

The Naturalist Trail Race in Franklin, North Carolina is a trail running event scheduled for October 3, 2026. The course follows sections of the historic Bartram Trail, beginning in downtown Franklin, passing Wallace Branch and ascending to Wayah Bald.

Distances offered include:

  • 25K: roughly 5,500 feet of elevation gain
  • 50K: more than 8,500 feet of elevation gain

Hydration and nutrition are available at multiple aid stations stocked with water, electrolyte drinks, fruit, energy bars and other snacks. Aid station locations include mile 3.5 (Wallace Branch), mile 9 (Harrison Gap), mile 14.5 (Wayah Bald summit), mile 19.5 (Harrison Gap return, 50K only) and mile 25 (Wallace Branch return, 50K only). Participants ascending Wayah Bald are advised to carry at least 1 liter of water.

Logistics note a combined field limit of 150 entrants and limited parking at Wayah Bald. A shuttle is provided to return 25K runners to the start. Time cutoffs are in place at several mile points; missing those cutoffs may jeopardize completing the course.

After the race there are live music performances, food service, craft beer and awards. Participants must sign a waiver that acknowledges the inherent risks of trail running and releases the event organizers and landowners from certain claims. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.

United States North Carolina Franklin

Race information

Website Registration
50 km
50k
25 km
25k
Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
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