Walking Tall 50/25k
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Event Details
Walking Tall 50/25K is scheduled for October 17, 2026 at Big Hill Pond State Park in Pocahontas, Tennessee.
Distances
The event offers two trail running distances:
- 50K (approximately 31 miles)
- 25K (approximately 15.5 miles)
Course Description
The course is almost entirely single-track trail with some park road. It includes a fire tower that participants can climb and a swamp boardwalk over half a mile long. The area has historical connections to local sheriff Buford Pusser.
Event Logistics
Cut-off times are 9 hours for the 50K and 8 hours for the 25K, with the event ending at 4 p.m. There is a specific cut at the inbound railroad tracks at 2:30 for mile 26.1. Aid stations are provided at various points: for the 25K at miles 6.5, 9.6, and 12.5; for the 50K at miles 15.5 (with drop bag option), 18.4, 23.0, 26.1, and 27.5.
Additional Information
Year-round camping is available at Big Hill Pond. According to Ultra Magazine, the event has a rating of 3 for elevation change and surface. This is a not-for-profit event; 100% of proceeds go to charity, with 90% supporting Big Hill Pond and 10% going to the Tennessee Park Rangers Association.
Fire Tower Challenge
Climbing the fire tower is optional. Participants who ascend to the top and get their bib punched receive a special challenge coin. It is required for top 3 placements or course records. An alternative is to complete stairs on the first floor. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
