The Naturalist

The Naturalist Trail Race returns to Franklin, North Carolina on October 3rd as part of Outdoor 76’s Fall Celebration, offering runners the chance to explore historic trails in a vibrant setting.
Runners gather early at sunrise along Main Street and near outdoor gear shops that line the downtown area. The day begins cool with temperatures around 14 degrees Celsius by 8 am, gradually warming up to an average of 17 degrees as morning progresses. Trail conditions are firm yet slightly soft underfoot, providing a mix of terrain challenges.
The Naturalist has been running since its inception in 2023 and is known for both its scenic beauty and the historical significance of the Bartram Trail that it follows. Over two dozen participants competed last year, with all receiving custom pint glasses as keepsakes from William Bartram’s explorations dating back to the late eighteenth century.
The course begins at Outdoor 76 on Main Street in Franklin before heading into Wallace Branch and up towards Wayah Bald for an elevation gain of approximately 5,500 feet. For those tackling the longer distance, the route circles around Wayah Bald with a total ascent exceeding 8,500 feet.
Hydration stations are set up at key points along the trail including Wallace Branch (3.5 miles), Harrison Gap (9 miles for both distances and again after summiting for the 50K runners at mile 14.5), and then back down to Wallace Branch upon completion of the longer route’s return leg.
On race day, temperatures typically range between a cool morning low of about 12 degrees Celsius rising to an afternoon high around 23 degrees with average wind speeds of 10 kilometers per hour and moderate humidity at 71 percent. There is also a slight chance of rainfall amounting to roughly one millimeter.

The Naturalist Trail Race offers both the challenging 25K distance for $80, which features an elevation gain of approximately 5,500 feet, and the even more demanding 50K route priced at $110 that exceeds 8,500 feet in total ascent.
Registration can be completed online via [https://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=135019](https://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=135019). The registration fee for the 25K is $80 and for the 50K it's $110. Entries are limited to a total of 150 participants across both distances.
Bib pickup options include Friday evening from Outdoor 76 or early morning on-site at the start location before race day starts. First-timers should bring their confirmation email, photo ID and be prepared for challenging terrain starting just after dawn.
The event begins promptly at 8:00 AM in front of Outdoor 76 located at 35 East Main Street in Franklin, North Carolina. The Naturalist Trail Race on October 3rd is a celebration of local history and scenic trails, worth attending for its unique blend of outdoor adventure and cultural heritage that attracts runners from across the United States to participate each year.