About This Race
The Rootrock Trail Run at Briar Chapel delivers a challenging test of technical skill across three distance options in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. Set on 900 acres of rolling terrain south of the university town, this mid-October race lives up to its name with root-strewn and rock-studded singletrack that demands constant attention to foot placement. The event shares its venue with an afternoon mountain bike race, creating a festival atmosphere that celebrates trail sports. Runners can choose from a 5K introduction to the terrain, a substantial 10K test, or the full half marathon distance that explores the property's most challenging sections. The terrain is entirely trail-based, winding through mixed hardwood forests typical of the North Carolina Piedmont. With 500 participants across all distances, the race maintains an intimate feel while offering the energy of a well-attended event. The 8:30 AM start time allows runners to complete their distance before the heat of the day, though October temperatures in this region are typically mild and favorable for trail running.
The Rootrock courses wind entirely on singletrack trails through the Briar Chapel property's 900 acres of mixed terrain. As the name suggests, runners face constant technical challenges from exposed roots and rock gardens that require careful foot placement and sustained concentration. The courses utilize the property's natural trail network, with longer distances incorporating additional loops and more remote sections of the trail system.
Practical Info
Mid-October in Chapel Hill typically offers ideal running conditions with temperatures in the 50s to 60s Fahrenheit, low humidity, and minimal precipitation risk.
RDU - Raleigh-Durham International Airport
Chapel Hill offers numerous hotel options near the University of North Carolina campus, approximately 15 minutes from the Briar Chapel race venue.
Best For
Notable Features
The Rootrock Trail Run stands out for its purely technical singletrack character and its connection to the mountain biking community through the afternoon bike race. The 900-acre Briar Chapel property provides an extensive trail network that allows race directors to craft challenging courses without repetitive loops, while the root-and-rock terrain offers the kind of technical running that develops stronger, more confident trail runners.