Trail running course through singletrack trails in Georgia, USA
Bearhoti Trail Fest

Bearhoti Trail Fest — 19 Miles

19 Miles·2,625 ft gain·Ellijay, Georgia
mountainforesttechnicaltrail

AI-generated image

Distance19 Miles
Gain2,625 ft
DateDate TBA
Difficulty2/5

About This Race

The 19-mile option strikes a balance between endurance challenge and accessibility, offering runners a solid half-day adventure through Pennsylvania's forest trails. This middle-distance choice appeals to runners building toward longer efforts or those seeking a meaningful challenge without ultra-distance commitment. The course provides ample opportunity to experience the natural beauty while maintaining a manageable scope for most trail runners.

The courses wind through the Cohutta Mountains' diverse terrain, featuring substantial mountain climbing followed by technical downhill sections that reward skilled descenders. Runners navigate singletrack trails through dense forest, cross multiple creeks, and encounter significant elevation changes throughout the routes. The terrain is characteristic of the Lower Appalachians, with rocky, technical sections mixed with flowing trail segments.

Key features include creek crossings that can become challenging during wet conditions, exposed ridgeline sections with panoramic mountain views, and the notable Georgia's largest tulip poplar tree. The courses showcase the full spectrum of Cohutta wilderness, from steep climbs to rolling forest floor to technical rocky descents.

Elevation Profile

Elevation profile estimated from terrain data. Actual course may differ.

The course gains 2,625 ft over 19 miles, with the steepest section between mile 7–mile 7.

Location

Practical Info

Accommodation

Mulberry Gap Adventure Basecamp offers campsites and cabins near the race area with shuttle services to the start/finish. Reservations must be made directly with the basecamp.

Best For

Experienced mountain runnersTrail runners seeking technical challengesWeekend adventure seekers

Notable Features

The festival format allows runners to experience the full spectrum of Cohutta wilderness over two days, from evening racing to dawn-to-dusk mountain adventures. The proximity to Georgia's largest tulip poplar tree and the emphasis on exploration over pure racing create a unique blend of challenge and natural appreciation. The grassroots organization maintains an intimate community atmosphere while accessing some of the Southeast's most pristine mountain terrain.

Other Distances at This Event

7 Miles

3,143 ft gain

The courses wind through the Cohutta Mountains' diverse terrain, featuring substantial mountain climbing followed by technical downhill sections that reward skilled descenders. Runners navigate singletrack trails through dense forest, cross multiple creeks, and encounter significant elevation changes throughout the routes. The terrain is characteristic of the Lower Appalachians, with rocky, technical sections mixed with flowing trail segments. Key features include creek crossings that can become challenging during wet conditions, exposed ridgeline sections with panoramic mountain views, and the notable Georgia's largest tulip poplar tree. The courses showcase the full spectrum of Cohutta wilderness, from steep climbs to rolling forest floor to technical rocky descents.

8 Miles

587 ft gain

The courses wind through the Cohutta Mountains' diverse terrain, featuring substantial mountain climbing followed by technical downhill sections that reward skilled descenders. Runners navigate singletrack trails through dense forest, cross multiple creeks, and encounter significant elevation changes throughout the routes. The terrain is characteristic of the Lower Appalachians, with rocky, technical sections mixed with flowing trail segments. Key features include creek crossings that can become challenging during wet conditions, exposed ridgeline sections with panoramic mountain views, and the notable Georgia's largest tulip poplar tree. The courses showcase the full spectrum of Cohutta wilderness, from steep climbs to rolling forest floor to technical rocky descents.

36 Miles

1,795 ft gain

The courses wind through the Cohutta Mountains' diverse terrain, featuring substantial mountain climbing followed by technical downhill sections that reward skilled descenders. Runners navigate singletrack trails through dense forest, cross multiple creeks, and encounter significant elevation changes throughout the routes. The terrain is characteristic of the Lower Appalachians, with rocky, technical sections mixed with flowing trail segments. Key features include creek crossings that can become challenging during wet conditions, exposed ridgeline sections with panoramic mountain views, and the notable Georgia's largest tulip poplar tree. The courses showcase the full spectrum of Cohutta wilderness, from steep climbs to rolling forest floor to technical rocky descents.