Pilot Mountain Goat
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Pilot Mountain Goat
The Pilot Mountain Goat is a trail running event held at Pilot Mountain State Park in Pinnacle, NC on December 19, 2026. The organizer is Mountain Goat Racing. Two distance options are offered:
- 7 Miler
- 3 Miler
Both races begin at the park campground and finish at the top of the mountain. The 3 mile route uses the wide gravel trail, Grindstone Trail and Pilot Knob Trail to circle the knob and return to the finish above the bathrooms. The 7 mile route follows the gravel trail onto Grindstone Trail, continues onto Mountain Trail around the back of the mountain, reconnects with Grindstone Trail, and then follows Pilot Knob Trail to the same finish location.
Race capacity is limited to 150 runners. The first 49 cars will park at the campground; additional cars will be directed to overflow parking areas. After the finish, participants return to their vehicles by running or walking down the trail or by arranging a ride; park staff will not provide rides down the mountain. Early packet pick up is available at the Pilot Mountain Visitor Center on December 18 from 4:00 to 5:30 pm. Race day packet pick up is available at the starting area from 8:15 to 9:50 am. Registration fees range from USD 40.50 to 45.50. No refunds are issued; transfers and distance changes are allowed through December 16, 2026. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
