About This Race
The Cloudland Canyon races offer a scenic introduction to Georgia's rugged canyon country, designed with accessibility and beauty in mind rather than brutal difficulty. Set in northwestern Georgia's Cloudland Canyon State Park, these multi-distance events showcase dramatic canyon vistas, cascading waterfalls, and sunrise views that stretch to the horizon. The race organization emphasizes safety and enjoyment while still delivering genuine trail challenges. Offering four distances from 5 miles to 50 miles, the event accommodates runners across the experience spectrum. The courses feature rolling hills punctuated by notable climbs and the signature descent into the canyon depths before the inevitable climb back out. December timing means cooler temperatures and the possibility of frost-touched landscapes, though runners should prepare for variable winter conditions in the Georgia mountains. Run Bum Tours has established this as part of their Southeast trail running calendar, focusing on community and scenic value rather than ego-crushing difficulty. The race director's emphasis on bringing cameras speaks to the visual rewards awaiting runners willing to tackle the canyon's challenges.
The 50-mile course combines the full 50K route with an additional lollipop extension, while the 50K itself consists of a single 14-mile loop followed by a lollipop section. The 25K follows a lollipop route that captures the essence of the longer distances, including the dramatic canyon descent and ascent. All longer courses feature rolling hill terrain with climbs ranging from 200 to 500 feet, culminating in the signature plunge to the canyon floor and back up.
The canyon descent and ascent represent the courses' defining challenge, offering both scenic payoff and significant elevation change. Runners pass multiple waterfalls and encounter expansive valley views, particularly striking at sunrise. The 5-mile option provides a gentler introduction to the terrain while still incorporating meaningful elevation gain and the area's signature beauty.
Practical Info
Cool December temperatures with potential for frost and variable winter conditions in northwestern Georgia mountains.
ATL - Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport
Rising Fawn is a small community; runners typically stay in nearby Chattanooga, Tennessee or Rome, Georgia for broader lodging options.
Best For
Notable Features
The signature canyon descent and ascent provide both the race's greatest challenge and its most spectacular scenery, with multiple waterfalls and sweeping valley views. December timing offers cooler temperatures and potential frost-enhanced landscapes, while the multi-distance format accommodates runners from 5 miles to 50 miles. The race organization's emphasis on safety, scenery, and photographer-friendly timing reflects a community-focused approach to trail running.