Race Format:

The Panther Claw 1776 is the inaugural race from Delta Peaks, created to celebrate our country’s independence and the spirit of community that defines trail running. This course is uniquely designed to reflect the freedom we have as Americans. It truly is a race by the people, for the people.

The race consists of three distinct loops: the Red Loop, White Loop, and Blue Loop, each beginning and ending at a central hub/aid station. Runners must complete all three loops in order to complete "The Whole Shebang" aka the full 17.76 miles.

But since this race celebrates freedom, we’re giving runners the freedom to choose the order in which they want to run each loop. That means no one will truly know who is leading the race until someone crosses the finish line. It's going to be a ton of fun, and we're super excited to see you there on race day!

Course Description:

The trails at Panther Creek State Park are about 90% singletrack, offering a little bit of everything you could want in a trail race. Expect a mix of smooth, cruising mountain bike trails, rocky sections, thick forest, and beautiful overlook views of Cherokee Lake. Flat sections, rolling hills, and a few steep climbs will keep runners engaged and interested. All in all, it’s a beautiful and varied course, and we think you’ll really love experiencing the Panther Claw 17.76 (or the relay) out on these trails.

Relay:

If running 17.76 miles in the heat of summer isn’t your thing, invite two friends and enter the relay. Each team member runs one loop. Honestly… this is where a lot of the fun happens. Spend all day hanging out with friends, then go all out for your one loop, which will be roughly 6ish miles. This race is all about community and hanging with friends on a beautiful day on the trails. Sign up with your friends for the relay if that's the experience you're looking to have.

Race Day

Both races start at 8:30am EST Saturday, July 4th, 2026

All races start and finish at the Panther Creek State Park “Lower Field”

**NO CREWS. NO DROP BAGS**

Course Maps

Coming soon

Aid Stations

There is 1 aid station that sits at the beginning and end of each loop.

PLEASE BRING A CUP as well as your regular hydration gear. The aid stations will have water, electrolyte drinks or mix, coke, sprite, pickle juice, pancakes, bacon, and various other snacks to enjoy.

Cutoff Times

The 2026 Panther Claw will have a 4 ½ hour cut off time. (1:00pm)

This averages out to over 15 minutes per mile pace. You must begin loop 3 by 11:30am

Please be respectful of race officials if you are asked to drop - no discussion.

SWAG

All runners will receive a t-shirt, and a finisher medal. Any signups after June 15th are not guaranteed a t-shirt.

Refunds / Transfers / Deferments

There are NO refunds, transfers or deferments. We do not have the capacity to mail awards, shirts, forgotten gear etc.

Registration after June 15 is not guaranteed a race shirt or finisher medal due to ordering deadlines.

Event's current local time: 12:37 AM ET