The Naturalist Trail Race on the Bartram Trail and Fall Celebration

The Naturalist Trail Race – 25 / 50k, which is a part of the Outdoor 76 FALL CELEBRATION, is back for another round of leg hurting fun on October 7, 2023! This day encompasses our trail race, multiple bands throughout the day along with 18 draft craft beers for all post race celebrations.

Come explore the same trails that William Bartram, “The Naturalist”, ventured on in the late 1700’s. This ultimate 50k will cover some of the most challenging ground in the Southeast. Runners will leave from downtown Franklin, NC at 8am and travel to the Bartram Trail area on Wallace Branch. Here runners will start the brutal climb that ultimately leads to Wayah Bald. From the Wallace Branch trail head to the top of Wayah Bald is approximately 11 miles. The 25k will have over 5500′ of climbing (50k will have over 8,500′ of climbing), making your legs feel weak just reading this. There will be multiple stations with food and water. 25K racers will end on Wayah Bald after running up the Bartram Trail. When 50k racers reach Wayah Bald they will circle the bald, resupply then head back down the Bartram Trail. Outdoor 76 will host the post race meal (voucher or meal), music, beer….and oh yeah awards!

The race starts in front of Outdoor 76 ~8am. The Fall Celebration & after race party is from 12-6pm at Outdoor 76.

For more information or to sign up to volunteer, head over to the Outdoor 76 website: https://www.outdoor76.com/the-naturalist-25-50k/