Headwaters Trail Race Overview
Headwaters Trail Race is back post-Covid with 10k, 30k, and 60k options for 2022!
For those who have run the 30k in the past, the course will be run as in 2021,counter-clockwise and with no soul sucking climb out of the valley at the end. The 60k will be two laps. The entire 30k course includes 2,100+ feet of gain in 18 miles with a max elevation of 4,400+ feet.
This race is low key and tons of fun and we keep the runner field relatively small so we can all get to know each other and have a blast.
The 10k course is TBD and based on trail conditions prior to race day.
Things To Know
This race is hosted in Panthertown Valley. The start is at the Salt Rock Gap parking area on the west side of the valley. There are two aid stations. The first is roughly 5 miles in at the Cold Mountain parking area. The second is about 14 miles in at Rattlesnake Knob trailhead. Both aid stations will have typical aid station food (bananas, PB&J, salty, and chocolate). The finish will have hot soup or chili and bread per usual. We are constantly looking to improve and add new and fun things to this race and aid station food is one area we will always work on. So as we get closer to the race we may have delicious additions. We encourage cupless races. It is recommended to bring your own hydration containment system with you. We cannot guarantee there will be cups at the aid stations. We will have bowls and cups at the finish for the soup.
Considering most of the steep terrain in western North Carolina, this course is fairly runnable. There are at least two big climbs you will have to navigate and then some minor climbs, but for the most part you can run the entire course. It's mostly singletrack with a few spots that you are on old forest access roads. The final descent down Black Rock is technical and challenging, especially on tired legs, so be mindful of your footing at the finish line.
Start Times
Start Times:
10k: 10:15am
30k: 10:00am
60k: 7:00am
Refunds & Transfers
As a general policy, there are no refunds for this event. Those unable to attend can transfer their bib to another racer. This is a rain or shine race, and will only be canceled for extreme weather including flash-flooding or hazardous winter weather.
Swag
Race swag for 2022 is to be determined but will include a beer and koozie from UpCountry Brewing and Distilling based in both Brevard and Asheville. Top finishers will receive a six pack for the road. Top 3 female and male runners will receive handmade awards made by a local artist in Cashiers, NC.
Course
https://fatmap.com/routeid/2912074/headwaters-30k-trail-race?fmid=cp
The 30k course will have a 7-hour cut-off. Even at a 20 min/mile pace, you would finish around 6-hours. The cutoff may be amended at the discretion of the race director on the day of the race.
The 60k course and cutoff is to be determined.
Carpooling
Carpooling is highly encouraged to limit the impact the relatively-small Salt Rock Gap Parking area. If the weather is as nice as it was in 2021, there may be other hikers and trail users out there as well and the parking area can fill quickly. If you are coming from 64 east, we'd recommend leaving a car somewhere between Brevard and Rosman. There is a park-and-ride where 178 comes in that could be a good option. If you're coming 107 from Sylva, there is a park and ride on the right side of the highway as you pass WCU. There is also a Walmart and several major parking lots, though you should do your own research and be mindful of any no-all-day parking signs. There are currently no places to meet in Cashiers unless you know someone who personally lives there and has parking at their property.
Of course in the age of COVID-19, please be mindful of your safety and the safety of others. Safety is my number one priority and if we are not in a much safer place with COVID we will postpone this race until things are safer. Of course in the age of COVID-19, please be mindful of your safety and the safety of others.
Volunteers & Sponsors
UpCountry Brewing and Distilling is the primary sponsor for this event. The owner and his son are racing the 30k, and other staff may be present at the start/finish line. Each swag bag includes a packaged beer from the brewery to be enjoyed at a later time.
This race would not be possible without the amazing crew of volunteers and sponsors who help make it happen. If you are a business and would like to sponsor an aid station for 2022, please reach out to us directly at info@whitedotadventures.com or 828-333-8208. If you are an individual who would like to volunteer, we need help with parking, registration, course marking, sweeping, and more. Please reach out directly.
Based on the hours served, volunteers may be eligible for a discount code that can be used for a future event or a private running tour or hike.
Event's current local time: 8:45 AM ET
