Ascent at Mountain Air 5K
Always double-check with the organizer's website! This page may contain affiliate links.
Ascent at Mountain Air 5K
The Ascent at Mountain Air is scheduled for September 19, 2026, at Mountain Air Drive in Burnsville, NC. The event marks the 10th anniversary of this road race within the Mountain Air community.
The race distance is 5K. The course climbs 1,800 feet on paved roads from the community main gate to a private airstrip that sits at 4,600 feet elevation. The finish overlooks mountains and forests during the fall color season.
Race-day services include packet pickup at the Mountain Air Sales Lodge and a bag drop at the start area; bags are transported to the finish for post-race pickup. Each registered runner receives a special 10th anniversary race shirt. The event is bib timed, with finish times recorded as runners cross the line; race bibs should be visible at the finish.
Spectator logistics note that shuttles will carry non-runners to the finish prior to the race and will return people from the finish after the awards period. Spectators may bring small lawn chairs or blankets to use at the top. Parking is provided in three areas near the Mountain Air Visitor Center: two grass areas as you approach the visitor center and one area just past the visitor center before the main gate.
Commemorative awards will be presented to the top ten male and top ten female finishers and will not be mailed. A $150 cash bonus will be awarded to the male and/or female who breaks the course record in the Open, Masters (40-49), and Grand Masters (50 and over) divisions. All ages can attempt the Open course record; those 40-49 are eligible for Open and Masters records; those 50 and over are eligible for Open and Grand Masters records. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
