Tsali Ultra
Graham County, United States • 17 Jan 2026
Tsali Ultra : January 17, 2026
The Tsali Ultra is an annual trail running event held at the Tsali Recreation Area in the Nantahala National Forest near Bryson City, North Carolina. The event offers three distances:
- 50K
- 30K
- 8K
Course, cutoffs and championships
Races run on the Tsali Trail System, which follows single track and former logging roads alongside Fontana Lake with views of the Great Smoky Mountains. The organizer describes the trails as well-groomed with rolling terrain, good footing, aid station support and volunteer staffing. None of the aid stations can be reached by a runner's personal support crew.
Time limits apply for each distance: the 8K has a 7-hour overall time limit, the 30K an 8-hour limit, and the 50K a 9.5-hour limit. The course includes checkpoint and aid locations at specific mile markers (for example Murphy’s Branch at mile 6.5 and mile 13.4, Trailhead at mile 14.2, water drops near mile 19.9, Crossroads at mile 23, and a finish at mile 30.9). The organizer states that cutoff times will be strictly enforced.
Good Endurance Running will host the NC USATF 50 km Trail Championships in conjunction with the Tsali 50K. Championship eligibility requires 2026 USATF membership and at least 12 months of North Carolina residency. Prize money is listed for Open and Masters divisions: $200, $150 and $100 for first through third place. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.