Lake James 7 Miler & 5k

Event Overview

The Lake James 7 Miler & 5k is a trail running event held on April 4, 2026. It takes place at Fonta Flora Brewery's Whippoorwill Farm in Nebo, North Carolina. The courses utilize the trails of nearby Lake James State Park.

Race Details

The event offers two distances: a 7 Miler and a 5k. Both races are chip-timed and will be held rain or shine. The 7 Miler has a course time limit of two hours. Dogs and strollers are not permitted on the race courses.

Course Description

Both courses begin with a loop around a field at Fonta Flora to spread out runners.

• The 7 Miler features single-track trail and two road crossings, with 425 feet of elevation gain. It has access to three aid stations.
• The 5k includes single-track trail and a one-mile gravel single-track section, with 123 feet of elevation gain. It has one aid station that runners pass twice. Course maps are available online, and courses are subject to change at the race director's discretion.

Registration Inclusions

Registration for the in-person races includes a wooden finisher medal, a commemorative race shirt, and a Fonta Flora beer for participants aged 21 and over. A portion of the registration fee is donated to the Lake James Environmental Association.

A virtual race option is available where participants can complete a 7 Miler or 5k on their own. Virtual registrants receive a mailed shirt, medal, and bib after the event but are not eligible for awards.

Awards

Awards are given for the 7 Miler and 5k. Top three overall male, nonbinary, and female finishers receive cash vouchers for Mountain Running Company and a custom award. Top masters (40+) and grand masters (50+) finishers in each gender category also receive a voucher and award. Age group awards (top three in each category) are given as Fonta Flora pint glasses.

Logistics

Packet pickup is available on the day of the event and also at an early pickup location in Asheville, NC, the day before. Parking is available at Fonta Flora Brewery and an adjacent overflow lot; carpooling is encouraged. The access road will be temporarily closed during the race starts.

Policies

The event has a no-refund policy. Participants may transfer their registration to another runner, a different distance, or to the virtual option up to five days before the event. In case of inclement weather, a postponement date of April 11, 2026, is designated. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.

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