Rootrock Trail Run
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Rootrock Trail Run
Rootrock Trail Run takes place at Briar Chapel in Chapel Hill, NC on October 17, 2026 in the morning. The event offers three trail race distances on root and rock strewn single-track trails that traverse the Briar Chapel community and Great Meadow Park.
The race distances are:
- 5K: exact distance 3.3 miles, 222 ft elevation gain
- 10K: exact distance 6.2 miles, 438 ft elevation gain
- Half Marathon: exact distance 13.1 miles, 960 ft elevation gain
Course notes: the 5K begins with about 0.45 mile of pavement followed by double and single-track and is rated overall about 2+ out of 5 for technical terrain. The 10K is a one-loop course with a short paved section, mostly single-track, and is rated about 3 out of 5. The one-loop half marathon uses the 10K terrain plus additional western trails with steeper climbs and more rock and root sections; it is rated about 3+ to 4- out of 5 and had a small route revision in 2024 replacing some neighborhood pavement with a gravel connection.
Event features include a start and finish area in Great Meadow Park, limited field size to reduce trail crowding, well marked course, chip timing, frequent aid stations every 1-2 miles, medical support, race tee and finisher medal, post race food and beverage, awards by overall and age group, contests and giveaways, free photo downloads, and a free kids race for treasure for ages 11 and under. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
