Tsali Ultra
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Tsali Ultra : January 17, 2026
The Tsali Ultra is a trail running event held at the Tsali Recreation Area in the Nantahala National Forest in North Carolina on January 17, 2026. The event offers the following race distances:
- 50K
- 30K
- 8K
The course uses the Tsali Trail System and runs alongside Fontana Lake with views of the Great Smoky Mountains. The Tsali Recreation Area includes multiple loops and single-track trails; the trail system provides extensive riding and running routes totaling about 40 miles of trail.
Course, cutoffs and championships
The event is classified as a Mountain, Ultra, Trail (MUT) race. Time limits for completion are set by distance: the 8K has 7 hours, the 30K has 8 hours, and the 50K has 9.5 hours to complete. Cutoff points are located at specific mile markers on the course (for example Murphy’s Branch at Mile 6.5, Trailhead at Mile 14.2, Crossroads at Mile 23, and Finish Line at Mile 30.9) and are strictly enforced for runner and volunteer safety. None of the aid stations can be reached by personal support crews.
Good Endurance Running will host the NC USATF 50 km Trail Championships in conjunction with the Tsali 50K. Championship eligibility requires 2026 USATF membership and at least 12 months residency in North Carolina. Prize money is offered for Open and Masters divisions. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
