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

Bearhoti Trail Fest — 36 Miles

36 Miles·1,795 ft gain·Ellijay, Georgia
ultra50kmountainforesttechnicaltrail

AI-generated image

Distance36 Miles
Gain1,795 ft
DateDate TBA
Difficulty4/5

About This Race

The 36-mile ultra distance serves as the festival's flagship challenge, demanding both physical endurance and mental resilience over an extended forest journey. This substantial test requires careful pacing and nutrition strategy as runners navigate the full scope of Pennsylvania's wooded landscape. The distance attracts experienced trail runners seeking a serious training effort or goal race in a supportive, low-key environment.

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 1,795 ft over 36 miles, with the steepest section between mile 53–mile 53.

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.

19 Miles

2,625 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.