Brasstown Bald Buster 2027
The One and Only Brasstown Bald Buster: Georgia’s Highest 5K!
With only one hill on the entire course, we might even call this one flat and fast. Nah… just kidding.
Proudly hosted by Project 42 Running, the 2027 Brasstown Bald Buster takes you up Georgia’s highest peak on a scenic 5K road course. Speed demons and leisurely strollers alike are invited to take on the challenge.
The Course
1,700 feet of climbing in 3.1 miles. It’s not just a run. It’s a scenic, challenging, classic adventure. Run it or ruck it for fun. Or if you’re feeling gutsy, go after Adam Pinkston’s course record of 24:40, which has stood for over 30 years.
The Ruck Division
Men carry 25 lbs and women carry 15 lbs. Choose “Brasstown Bald Ruck” when you register. You’ll have 2.5 hours to reach the top. That sounds generous, but trust us: hauling weight up 1,700 feet in 3 miles will show you what you’re made of. Better start training!
Awards
Awards for the top 3 men and women overall in both the 5K and the ruck.
Race Day Details
📅 Saturday, April 24, 2027
📍 Brasstown Bald Visitor Center & Recreation Area, 2941 Highway 180 Spur, Hiawassee, GA 30546
🚐 Last shuttle leaves the top at 7:20 AM
⏰ Mandatory pre-race briefing at 7:30 AM at the bottom
🏁 Race starts at 7:45 AM
Parking
NO PARKING at the bottom or along any roads. Period. Runners and ruckers park at the top, then walk down or take the shuttle to the start. The last shuttle leaves at 7:20 AM. Miss it and you’re walking, so give yourself plenty of time.
Shirts & Medals
Everyone gets a medal and a T-shirt. To guarantee your shirt, register by April 10, 2027. You can still register after that date, but we order shirts in advance, so we can’t promise one.
Important
No race-day registration
No transfers, refunds or deferrals
Rain, shine or snow, this race is happening!
Make a Day of It
Stick around and explore the North Georgia mountains, even if you’re not running or rucking. Brasstown Bald has a paved path under a mile long with mind-blowing views. Miles of trails surround the area in Union, Towns, Rabun and White Counties, and the town of Helen and Vogel State Park are local favorites.
Event's current local time: 6:31 AM ET
