The Naturalist - Franklin, NC
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The Naturalist - Franklin, NC
The Naturalist is a trail running event in Franklin, North Carolina, organized by Outdoor 76 as part of a fall celebration. The event offers two distances and follows sections of the historic Bartram Trail, routing from downtown Franklin toward Wallace Branch and up to Wayah Bald. All participants receive a custom pint glass.
Distances offered:
- 25K: roughly 5,500 feet of elevation gain, finish atop Wayah Bald.
- 50K: exceed 8,500 feet of gain, includes a loop around Wayah Bald and a return descent.
Aid and support are provided at multiple stations stocked with water, electrolyte drinks, fruit, energy bars and other snacks. Aid locations include Mile 3.5 (Wallace Branch), 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). Participants tackling the ascent to Wayah Bald are advised to carry at least 1 liter of water.
Logistics note that the field is capped at 150 entrants combined, parking at Wayah Bald is limited, and 25K runners may use a free shuttle back to the start on race day. Time cutoffs are applied at several aid stations and may affect the ability to complete the course. Event policies state there are no refunds or deferrals. Participants are required to accept a waiver that acknowledges the inherent risks and releases the organizers and property owners from certain claims. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
