About This Race
The Firewater Ultra stands as Tennessee's pioneering 100K trail race, celebrating its 12th year on the pristine East Lakeshore Trail system along the Tellico Reservoir. This well-established event showcases one of the Southeast's most runnable trail networks, maintained by the Watershed Association of the Tellico Reservoir (WATeR). The race offers multiple distance options to accommodate different runner preferences and schedules. What sets Firewater apart is its flexible approach to ultra running. The 50K now features both sunrise and sunset start options, allowing runners to choose between an 8:30am traditional start or a 2:30pm afternoon departure that showcases the spectacular sunset over Tellico Lake. The relay format encourages team participation, while the 25K ruck option provides an entry point for those interested in weighted pack running. The race maintains a grassroots feel with thoughtful touches like custom hoodies and early registration incentives. With over a decade of historical results, Firewater has built a reputation for reliable organization and a course that balances challenge with accessibility. The entirely trail-based route follows the reservoir's eastern shoreline, providing consistent scenery and well-maintained footing throughout.
The course utilizes the full length of the East Lakeshore Trail system on the eastern shore of Tellico Reservoir. The 100K covers the entire trail out-and-back, while the 50K starts at the northern turnaround point and heads south to the finish. The trail system is described as well-maintained and very runnable, suggesting consistent footing and clear marking.
Runners experience continuous reservoir views along the eastern shoreline, with the course following established trail infrastructure rather than technical backcountry terrain. The out-and-back format for the 100K provides familiarity on the return journey, while the point-to-point 50K offers a different experience of the same trail system.
Location
Notable Features
Firewater holds the distinction of being Tennessee's first 100K trail race and continues to be the only 100K option in the state. The race's signature feature is its dual 50K start times, offering both traditional sunrise and scenic sunset options. The entirely trail-based course on well-maintained paths provides reliable footing and consistent challenge without extreme technical demands.