The Snow Bull Trail Runs returns to Camp Chet near Whitwell, Tennessee on January 16th, offering runners a unique winter endurance challenge through the Cumberland Plateau's dense forests and rugged terrain. Located at Camp Chet in Whitwell, TN, the race begins early morning with temperatures typically hovering around freezing. The camp sits atop Whitwell Mountain, providing panoramic views of rolling hills and wooded landscapes that create an ideal setting for trail runners seeking a challenging winter experience. Participants will encounter firm yet slightly soft trails underfoot, conducive to both running and walking segments as they navigate through the diverse landscape. This event marks the continuation of Camp Chet's tradition of hosting endurance events, supporting various causes including conservation efforts within Southeast Tennessee’s natural habitats. The Snow Bull Trail Runs have drawn a dedicated community of runners over multiple years, each year attracting around 200 participants who come to test their limits on this scenic and demanding course. The race takes place across nearly 1000 acres of private forested land at Camp Chet, featuring mixed single-track and double-track trails along with grass fields and logging roads. Each loop measures approximately six and a half miles, including about 1500 feet of elevation gain per lap through varied terrain that includes dense forests and old wagon roads. The course is largely runnable but features some moderately technical sections requiring careful footing. Race day conditions are expected to offer firm yet slightly soft trail surfaces with low UV exposure typical for January in the region. Temperatures will likely range from freezing early morning temperatures warming up as the sun rises, providing a cold but fair environment for endurance running without excessive heat or humidity concerns. The Snow Bull Trail Runs features three distinct distance categories: 12 Hour | 6 Hours | Half-Marathon (21.1K). Each event offers unique challenges tailored to runners looking for an off-road adventure in the Tennessee winter landscape.
Registration for these events can be completed online at https://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=134911, with fees ranging from $70 to $90 depending on the chosen distance. Early registration is recommended as bibs and shirts are not guaranteed past January 6th. Packet pickup occurs exclusively on race morning between 7:00 AM and 8:30 AM CT at Camp Chet/Whitwell, TN (5050 Pocket Rd). Participants must bring identification to sign a waiver and receive their ankle monitor if required. The start line opens for bib distribution starting from this time until the official race commencement. Runners should plan to arrive by 7:30 AM CT at Camp Chet located on Whitwell Mountain in Tennessee, ready to participate in either the half-marathon or one of the endurance events beginning promptly at 9:00 AM CT. The event welcomes participants aged 16 and over with a focus on challenging oneself within the natural beauty of Southeast Tennessee. The Snow Bull Trail Runs near Whitwell, TN, offers runners an opportunity to experience rigorous winter trail running in the scenic Cumberland Plateau region while supporting local conservation efforts through their participation.
Races Offered
12 Hour
Jan 16, 2027
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Distance —
12 Hours
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
09:00
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$90.00
6 Hour
Jan 16, 2027
straighten
Distance —
6 Hours
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
09:00
sell
$75.00
Half-marathon
Jan 16, 2027
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Distance —
21.1K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
09:00
sell
$70.00
Weather History
These values represent the 3-year monthly averages for January in Whitwell.
thermostatTemperature
-0.1° / 9.4°
wb_sunnyFeels like
-3.8° / 6.1°
light_mode
Avg sunshine hours
6h 5m
water_drop
Avg rainfall
4.8 mm
ac_unit
Avg snowfall
0.2 cm
air
Avg wind speed
8.8 km/h (Light breeze)
opacity
Sweat loss rate
Low
terrain
Course conditions
Firm and slightly soft
sunny
Max UV Index
Low (2.0)
humidity_mid
Humidity
73.7%
wb_twilight
Sunrise
07:47
nightlight
Sunset
17:53
About Whitwell
Learn more about the host city, Whitwell.
Whitwell is a city in Marion County, Tennessee, United States, approximately 24 miles northwest of Chattanooga. The population was 1,641 at the 2020 census. It is part of the Chattanooga, TN–GA Metropolitan Statistical Area.