The Cruel Jewel 50 is a notoriously difficult point-to-point ultramarathon set in the rugged North Georgia Mountains within the Chattahoochee National Forest. Scheduled for Saturday, May 16, 2026, the course actually covers a total distance of 57.5 miles. Known for its relentless vertical profile, the race guides runners from Blairsville to the finish line in Blue Ridge, passing through some of the most remote and technical terrain in the Appalachian range.
Race Statistics and Technical ProfileThe Cruel Jewel 50 is designed for experienced trail runners, featuring extreme elevation changes and a mix of surface types that test both physical and mental endurance.
| Metric | Value / Detail |
|---|---|
| Total Distance | 57.5 Miles (50 trail / 7.5 mountain road) |
| Elevation Gain | Over 17,000 feet |
| Elevation Loss | Over 17,000 feet |
| Aid Stations | 10 Stations |
| Start Time | 8:00 AM ET |
The journey across the North Georgia Mountains is famous for its biological diversity and technical difficulty, including the infamous "Dragon's Spine" section.
Due to the point-to-point nature of the race, careful planning regarding transportation and gear is required for all participants.
The Cruel Jewel 50 serves as the "shorter" alternative to the Cruel Jewel 100, yet it remains one of the most respected 50-mile (plus) distances in the United States. Managed by DUMAssEvents, the race focuses on a raw mountain experience, prioritizing the natural beauty of the Chattahoochee National Forest over standard road-running amenities.
May 16, 2026
Distance — 80.5K
Type — Running
08:00
$225.00
These values represent the 3-year monthly averages for May in Blue Ridge.
Learn more about the host city, Blue Ridge.
Blue Ridge is a small resort town in the Georgia's Northeast High Country. It is located in the foothills of the Appalachian Trail.
Read more launchWatch highlights and course previews from previous years.
Read what other athletes have to say about their experience at the Cruel Jewel 50.
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