Lookout Mountain Trail Race

The Lookout Mountain Trail Race returns to Lookout Mountain, Georgia on December 19th, offering runners an array of distances through the challenging yet breathtaking terrain of Covenant College's campus grounds.
Participants can expect a race morning that starts with crisp air and clear skies typical for early winter in this region. Temperatures hover around freezing at dawn but warm slightly as the day progresses due to the elevation gain throughout the course. The trail conditions are firm, providing runners with stable footing despite occasional soft spots near water crossings. Visibility is usually excellent during daylight hours, allowing competitors to enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.
This race has been a tradition for over 15 years and consistently draws around 200 participants annually across its various distances. The event supports Wild Trails, a local charity focused on preserving nature trails in the Chattanooga area. With each registration or membership purchase at certain levels, runners contribute to trail maintenance and expansion projects that benefit both wildlife habitats and recreational opportunities for future generations.
The Lookout Mountain Trail Race features three distinct courses: an 18-mile journey (29 kilometers) with a fee of $55.00; the grueling yet rewarding 50-mile trek (80.5 kilometers), priced at $95.00; and a challenging 10K that has earned its reputation as one of the most demanding short-distance races in the region, costing $35.00 per runner.
The course winds through Covenant College's scenic grounds with sections following old single-track trails up to two exposed bluff lines offering stunning views over vast distances on clear days. The terrain includes steep ascents and descents along creeks leading to Lula Lake Land Trust, where participants can enjoy the beauty of rhododendron forests, mixed hardwoods, and towering waterfalls like 120-foot-tall Lula Falls.
On race day, temperatures will range between freezing at dawn and slightly warmer by mid-morning. UV index levels are expected to be low during daylight hours (UV Index = 2), reducing the risk of sunburn but still requiring proper hydration strategies due to cooler air temperatures lowering sweat evaporation rates without significantly impacting heat stress.