The Naturalist - Franklin, NC
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The Naturalist - Franklin, NC (October 3, 2026)
The Naturalist is a trail running event organized by Outdoor 76 in Franklin, North Carolina, held as part of Outdoor 76’s Fall Celebration. The course follows sections of the historic Bartram Trail and begins in downtown Franklin before leading to Wallace Branch and the ascent toward Wayah Bald.
Distances offered
- 25K: roughly 5,500 feet of elevation gain, finishing atop Wayah Bald
- 50K: more than 8,500 feet of elevation gain, circles Wayah Bald and returns along the trail
Hydration and nutrition are available at multiple aid stations stocked with water, electrolyte drinks, fruit, energy bars and snacks. Runners ascending Wayah Bald are advised to carry at least 1 liter of water. Aid station locations are listed at Mile 3.5 (Wallace Branch, limited aid), Mile 9 (Harrison Gap), Mile 14.5 (Wayah Bald summit), Mile 19.5 (Harrison Gap return, 50K only), and Mile 25 (Wallace Branch return, 50K only).
Field size is capped at 150 entrants combined for both distances. Parking at Wayah Bald has limited availability, and a shuttle service returns 25K runners to the start on race day. All participants receive a custom pint glass. The event enforces time cutoffs at several aid stations and has a no refunds or deferrals policy. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
