Chattanooga Mountains Stage Race
Always double-check with the organizer's website! This page may contain affiliate links.
Event Overview
The Chattanooga Mountains Stage Race is a three-day trail running event taking place in the mountains surrounding Chattanooga, Tennessee. Organized by Wild Trails, the competition covers a total distance of 60 miles over consecutive days. The event is scheduled from October 16 to October 18, 2026, and utilizes various mountain trails and natural areas in the region.
Course Details
Participants complete a different route each day, focusing on various geographic areas:
- Day 1: A 22-mile run at Lula Lake on Lookout Mountain.
- Day 2: An 18-mile point-to-point course on the Cumberland Trail along North Chattanooga Creek.
- Day 3: A 20-mile loop on Signal Mountain to conclude the series.
Specific landmarks along the various routes include Mushroom Rock, Rock Creek, Edwards Point, and the Tennessee River Gorge. The terrain consists of mountain trails that require participants to maintain a steady pace across moderately difficult surfaces.
Participation Requirements
This event is intended for experienced trail runners. Participants are expected to maintain a pace of at least 15 minutes per mile over 20 miles on trail terrain. Strict time cut-offs are enforced for each stage: 6 hours for the 22-mile stage, 5 hours for the 18-mile stage, and 5.5 hours for the 20-mile stage. Registration typically closes on the first day of the event.
Community and Support
The race proceeds benefit Wild Trails, a non-profit organization focused on the protection and expansion of nature trails in the Chattanooga area. Evening gatherings are held for participants to interact between stages, with local partners providing refreshments and social spaces. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
