The Papertown Trail Races returns to Canton, North Carolina on October 10th, offering a challenging and scenic trail running experience at Chestnut Mountain Nature Park.
Both Races 6mi • Start: 09:00:00 • Fee: $39.44
Race day dawns early with temperatures around 13.9°C, feeling much like the norm for late autumn in this region of the United States. The park provides an inviting backdrop as runners prepare to tackle the course through woodland paths. As participants gather just before dawn, the air is crisp and the morning light casts a golden hue over the densely forested trails. Since its inception two years ago, Papertown Trail Races has grown from 50 initial registrants to more than twice that number in subsequent editions. The event supports local community initiatives through proceeds donated to scholarships for underprivileged youth, making it a meaningful part of Canton's calendar. The race spans six miles across the varied terrain of Chestnut Mountain Nature Park. Both long and short races begin early morning at 9:00 AM and 9:30 AM respectively, with participants navigating winding paths and picturesque vistas before reaching the finish line. The course features a mix of moderate inclines and declines on well-maintained trails that are suitable for runners seeking an invigorating challenge. On race day, expect steady winds averaging around 7.9 mph, which will add to the physical effort required but also enhance the sense of accomplishment as participants push through brisk conditions. A hint of humidity at 72.3% might make hydration a priority for competitors, though no significant precipitation is expected. The Papertown Trail Races offers both races: the full six-mile event and an abbreviated five-kilometer run for shorter distances. Participants can register online via https://raceroster.com/events/2026/113589/papertown-trail-races with a fee of $39.44, due by September 30th. Bibs will be available for pickup on Friday, October 9th from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the Canton Community Center located at 123 Main Street. Runners should bring photo ID and a $5 processing fee if they miss the online registration deadline. The race starts from Chestnut Mountain Nature Park at 9:00 AM for the long course, with detailed directions provided in confirmation emails. For first-timers or newcomers to this event, the Papertown Trail Races offers an unforgettable opportunity to explore the beauty of Canton's natural surroundings while contributing positively to local communities. With its scenic routes and supportive atmosphere, it is a race worth attending as part of your fall running season.
Races Offered
Both Races
Oct 10, 2026
straighten
Distance —
6mi
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
09:00
sell
$39.44
Weather History
These values represent the 3-year monthly averages for October in Canton.
thermostatTemperature
7.5° / 19.9°
wb_sunnyFeels like
5.4° / 17.5°
light_mode
Avg sunshine hours
9h 39m
water_drop
Avg rainfall
1.0 mm
ac_unit
Avg snowfall
—
air
Avg wind speed
7.9 km/h (Light breeze)
opacity
Sweat loss rate
Low
terrain
Course conditions
Firm and slightly soft
sunny
Max UV Index
Moderate (4.0)
humidity_mid
Humidity
72.3%
wb_twilight
Sunrise
07:38
nightlight
Sunset
18:54
About Canton
Learn more about the host city, Canton.
Canton is the second largest town in Haywood County, North Carolina, United States. It is located about 17 miles (27 km) west of Asheville and is part of that city's metropolitan area. The town is named after the city of Canton, Ohio. The population was 4,422 at the 2020 census.