The Naturalist - Franklin, NC
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The Naturalist - Franklin, NC
The Naturalist is a trail running event in Franklin, NC organized by Outdoor 76 as part of the organizer’s Fall Celebration. The event uses the historic Bartram Trail beginning in downtown Franklin, leads runners to Wallace Branch, and sends them into an ascent toward Wayah Bald. All participants receive a custom pint glass as a keepsake.
Distances offered
- 25K: roughly 5,500 ft elevation gain, finishes atop Wayah Bald.
- 50K: exceed 8,500 ft 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 other snacks. Runners tackling the Wayah Bald ascent are advised to carry at least 1 liter of water. Aid stations are located 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).
Logistics notes include a combined field limit of 150 entrants, limited parking at Wayah Bald, and a free shuttle for 25K runners returning to the start. Registration fees are shown in the event offers. Post-race activities include live music, craft beer, food trucks and awards. Participants must accept a waiver that assumes event risks and releases the organizer and landowners from related claims. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
