Nestled around the picturesque finger of Cherokee Lake, Panther Creek State Park offers an idyllic backdrop for endurance runners seeking to challenge themselves on scenic trails during fall. The Dirt Circuit Ultra Marathon series presents four distinct race options—3 hours, 6 hours, 12 hours, and a grueling 24-hour event—all set against the serene beauty of Tennessee's natural landscapes. The loop course spans an invigorating 2.9 miles through varied terrain that includes wide trails winding through fields and dense woods with two wooden bridge crossings over Panther Creek. The route offers runners numerous opportunities to soak in breathtaking views while navigating a mix of single-track paths and wider, more forgiving stretches ideal for pushing your limits. Base Camp is situated at the park’s soccer fields where participants can enjoy amenities like food vendors offering pizza, burgers, hash browns, and other solid foods throughout both days. Friends and family are invited to join in the festivities from Friday evening through Saturday night as runners tackle their chosen distance under a canopy of autumn foliage. For those aiming for The Cherokee Ultra qualification in 2027, completing any race beyond 50 kilometers here will earn you entry into that prestigious event. With an emphasis on self-sufficiency—no cups are provided at aid stations—the Dirt Circuit encourages racers to carry their own hydration and nutrition systems throughout the course. The park’s rustic charm extends well past the finish line with primitive camping included in registration fees for both Friday and Saturday nights, allowing participants a chance to unwind amidst nature after their efforts. Additional accommodations like RV sites and cabins are available nearby through Panther Creek State Park's campground facilities. As you lace up your shoes for The Dirt Circuit Ultra Marathon series, prepare not just physically but mentally as well—this event promises an unforgettable experience in one of Tennessee’s most scenic state parks, where every lap brings new challenges and rewards.
Races Offered
12HR
Sep 19, 2026
straighten
Distance —
12 Hours
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
08:00
sell
$150.00
12HR 6 Person
Sep 19, 2026
straighten
Distance —
12 Hours
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
08:00
sell
$400.00
24HR
Sep 19, 2026
straighten
Distance —
24 Hours
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
08:00
sell
$200.00
24HR 6 Person
Sep 19, 2026
straighten
Distance —
24 Hours
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
08:00
sell
$500.00
3HR
Sep 19, 2026
straighten
Distance —
3 Hours
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
08:00
sell
$100.00
6HR
Sep 19, 2026
straighten
Distance —
6 Hours
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
08:00
sell
$125.00
6hr Ruck
Sep 19, 2026
straighten
Distance —
6 Hours
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
08:00
sell
$125.00
Weather History
These values represent the 3-year monthly averages for September in Morristown.
thermostatTemperature
16.6° / 26.8°
wb_sunnyFeels like
16.8° / 27.2°
light_mode
Avg sunshine hours
10h 18m
water_drop
Avg rainfall
3.5 mm
ac_unit
Avg snowfall
—
air
Avg wind speed
7.1 km/h (Light breeze)
opacity
Sweat loss rate
High
terrain
Course conditions
Hard and dry surface
sunny
Max UV Index
Moderate (5.0)
humidity_mid
Humidity
75.6%
wb_twilight
Sunrise
07:16
nightlight
Sunset
19:39
About Morristown
Learn more about the host city, Morristown.
Morristown is in Eastern Tennessee. Settled in the years just after the Revolutionary War, around 1787, Davy Crockett once lived here. Prior to the Civil Rights era, Morristown had one of the only two colleges in eastern Tennessee established for African Americans, called Morristown College. One newer development is the unique urban renewal design that was implemented for the town in the 1960s, with elevated sidewalks connecting city blocks downtown. The idea didn't really take off in terms of ushering in commerce, but it does have a peculiar look nonetheless.