Occoneechee Mountain Challenge 10 Mile
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Occoneechee Mountain Challenge 10 Mile
The Occoneechee Mountain Challenge is a 10 mile trail race organized by the Hillsborough Running Club at the Historic Occoneechee Speedway Track in Hillsborough, NC. The course uses the Riverwalk, part of the Mountains-to-Sea Trail, passes the Occaneechi Indian Village, and goes through Gold Park.
The middle third of the route climbs around and up to the top of Occoneechee Mountain, the highest point in Orange County. About 3.5 miles of the course are paved (the section from roughly mile 1.3 outward and the same section on the return). The middle 3.5 miles are single track around the mountain, with the rise to the peak on a gravel access road. Total elevation gain is approximately 700 ft, with most gain concentrated in the middle third. Trail conditions may include rocks, roots, steps, and mud; in January the trail can be tricky.
There are two aid stations that participants pass twice; both provide water, Gatorade, and gels. Approximate aid station locations are Gold Park (around miles 2.5 and 7.5) and the bottom of the gravel road at the mountain (around miles 4.5 and 5.5).
The event has a 2.5 hour time limit (15 minutes per mile). Run/walkers are welcome, though walking the entire course is not feasible. Packet pick-up is on race morning at the top of the bleachers; signs will direct. Parking is at OE Enterprises just beyond the main Speedway entrance off Elizabeth Brady Road.
Registration opens 8/24/2026 and closes 1/31/2027; registration fee is $60. Proceeds go to local charities and organizations through the Hillsborough Running Club. At the finish the race provides beef chili from Hoof Beat Farm, a veggie chili, bread, and coffee. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
