HAROC: Hanging Rock Challenge

Discover Adventure Where the Piedmont Meets the Peaks

Experience the beauty, challenge, and thrill of HAROC (Hanging Rock Challenge), a race that showcases the rugged majesty of Hanging Rock State Park. Whether you're taking on the 50K ultra or the Half Marathon, this race is your gateway to some of North Carolina's most stunning terrain—massive boulders, sweeping vistas, towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and trails that will push your limits and reward your spirit.

We’re thrilled to host this race in the park that inspired our love of the mountains. HAROC is more than just a race—it's a journey through the landscapes that shaped Tanawha Adventures and a chance for runners to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of this mountain oasis in the Piedmont.

Race Highlights:

• Technical Trails: Rocky, rooty, and relentlessly fun, these trails will test your agility and endurance.
• Breathtaking Scenery: From dramatic cliffs to serene waterfalls, every mile offers a reason to stop and take it in (if you can afford to pause!).
• Personal Challenge: With significant elevation gain and time limits that demand focus, HAROC is perfect for runners looking to push themselves.
• Winter Adventure: Held in the heart of winter, HAROC offers a unique cold-weather challenge with a backup date (January 25th) in case of significant ice or snow.

50K Course Details:

• Start Time: 8:00 AM
• Distance: 30.7 miles
• Elevation Gain: ~5,500 feet
• Time Limit: 9.5 hours
• Trail Miles: ~30 miles
• Pavement Miles: ~0.7 miles
• Aid Stations: 5

Half Marathon Course Details:

• Start Time: 9:00 AM
• Distance: 12.9 miles
• Elevation Gain: ~2,600 feet
• Time Limit: 4.5 hours
• Trail Miles: ~12 miles
• Pavement Miles: ~0.7 miles
• Aid Stations: 1

Why HAROC?

This race offers a rare opportunity to run through a park that perfectly blends rugged mountain terrain with Piedmont charm. The technical challenges and stunning scenery make it a must-do for trail runners of all experience levels. With a mix of climbing, descending, and exhilarating flat stretches, HAROC promises an unforgettable adventure for everyone who laces up.

Spots are limited, and demand is high. Don’t miss your chance to take on this epic challenge in one of North Carolina’s most iconic parks.

About Tanawha Adventures:

At Tanawha Adventures, we aim to Run. Inspire. Conserve. Founded in 2016, we design races that connect runners with the landscapes that inspire us. From the technical beauty of our courses to our commitment to conservation efforts, every race we host aims to protect and celebrate the wild spaces we love.

Become part of our journey to preserve and share North Carolina’s most incredible trails.

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Event's current local time: 4:19 PM ET