The Naturalist - Franklin, NC
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About the race
The Naturalist Trail Race is a pair of trail distances held in Franklin, NC that follow the historic Bartram Trail, the same routes William Bartram walked in the late 1700s. The course starts in downtown Franklin, goes out to Wallace Branch, and climbs toward Wayah Bald, with roughly eleven miles of continuous ascent on the approach.
The race is part of Outdoor 76’s Fall Celebration. Entrants in 2026 receive a custom pint glass.
Distances offered
- 25K : roughly 5,500 feet of climbing; finishes atop Wayah Bald with a free shuttle back to the start.
- 50K : at least 6,200 feet of climbing; runners circle Wayah Bald, refill, and descend the Bartram Trail back to town.
After finishing, the event returns to Outdoor 76 on Main Street for live music, craft beer, food trucks, and awards. The description focuses on course layout, elevation, and postrace amenities. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
