Lake James 7 Miler & 5k
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Event overview
The Lake James Races take place at Fonta Flora Brewery - Whippoorwill Farm in Nebo, NC on April 4, 2026. The event offers two distances:
- 7 Miler
- 5k
Registration includes a wooden finisher medal, a commemorative race shirt, one Fonta Flora beer for 21+ participants (or a non-alcoholic beverage), and a donation to the Lake James Environmental Association. Races are chip timed and held rain or shine. Kick It Event Management has a no-refund policy. Virtual runners are not eligible for awards.
Top overall and masters awards include cash prizes for first through third places and smaller prizes for masters and grand masters. Age group awards are given to the top three in standard age brackets.
Course, aid and logistics
Both courses start with a loop around the Fonta Flora field and use single-track trails in Lake James State Park. The 7 Miler includes single-track trail, two road crossings, a beach crossing, and about 425 ft of elevation gain. The 5k features single-track and a gravel loop with about 123 ft of elevation gain. The 7 Miler has no mile markers.
Aid stations supply water only. The 7 Miler has three water-only stations; the 5k has one station passed twice. Dogs and strollers are not allowed on the courses; service animals are allowed with prior approval and supporting documentation. There is main and overflow parking at the brewery; the road to runner parking will be temporarily closed during race starts. Early packet pick up is available the day before at Mountain Running Company and on race morning at the event site. Transfers to virtual or other runners are allowed up to five days before the event. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
