Helen Holiday Trail Race

Experience the 14th annual Helen Holiday Trail Race, organized by Run Bum Races on January 16, 2027. Registration opens on March 16 at 10am for three exciting distance options: a scenic and challenging 10K, an extended 25K trail run, and the grueling yet rewarding 50K adventure.
The 10K course remains unchanged from previous years, offering runners a compact loop that showcases the beauty of Helen's winter trails. This race is ideal for those looking to dip their toes into trail running or enjoy an invigorating morning out in nature.
For more endurance seekers, the 25K route extends beyond the original half marathon course with additional elevation and mileage. With approximately 16 miles and 2,700 feet of climbing, this race is a perfect blend of scenic beauty and physical challenge.
The crown jewel of the event, the 50K, presents runners with an opportunity to tackle nearly 34 miles over varied terrain. This course features around 5,500 feet of elevation gain and loss, making it particularly appealing for those who enjoy strategic pacing throughout a long-distance run. The unique design includes multiple loops from the start/finish area, allowing participants to drop bags at designated points along their journey.
Cutoff times are strictly enforced: runners must complete the 10K within 4.5 hours and the 25K in under 5.5 hours. For the 50K, competitors have a total of 11 hours to finish; however, they need to leave the start/finish area by hour 8:45 to continue onto their final loop.
Aid stations are strategically placed along each course:
- The 25K offers one full aid station.
- The 50K includes a water drop and three full aid stops, plus access to drop bags at the start/finish area for crucial resupply opportunities.
Participants should be prepared with their own navigation skills as they follow carefully marked trails. Road crossings require extra caution due to passing cars, but overall the race is designed to feel safe and enjoyable from start to finish.
The Helen Holiday Trail Race celebrates its tradition of inclusivity, particularly welcoming female runners who make up a significant portion of participants each year. The event aims to create an atmosphere where everyone can have fun while challenging themselves on some of Georgia's most picturesque trails.
All finishers within the designated cutoff times receive custom-designed medals commemorating their achievement. Note that registration must be completed by November 1st for guaranteed medal eligibility, and there are no refunds or deferrals available except under specific circumstances outlined in Run Bum Races' policies.
For more detailed information about course maps, schedules, and other race details, visit the official website at www.runbumtours.com. Follow updates on the RunBum Facebook page to stay informed leading up to the event date.