Beast of the East 100 - Event Description

The 2025 Beast of the East 100 is a trail ultramarathon event taking place on Saturday, December 13, 2025, at Crowders Ridge near Crowders Mountain State Park in Kings Mountain, North Carolina. Located at 130 Camp Rotary Rd, this scenic venue offers participants five distinct race distances to challenge themselves across the beautiful North Carolina trails. In mid-December, Kings Mountain experiences typical winter conditions with temperatures ranging from the mid-40s to low-50s Fahrenheit (8-11°C), with possible rain or occasional frost in early morning hours. Participants can expect cool, crisp trail conditions with potentially muddy sections depending on recent rainfall. The event features a well-organized course utilizing multiple interconnected trails with strategically placed aid stations, making it an ideal destination for ultrarunners seeking a winter trail running experience with varying distance options.

What race distances are available for the Beast of the East 100?

• →100 miler (approximately 101 miles with three full loops plus a partial loop)
• →100K (approximately 67.35 miles)
• →50 miler (approximately 53.79 miles)
• →Marathon (single large loop variant)
• →Half marathon (single large loop variant)

What are the start times for each race distance?

• →100 miler: 8:00 AM
• →100K: 8:10 AM
• →50 miler: 8:10 AM
• →Marathon: 8:20 AM
• →Half marathon: 8:30 AM

What are the cutoff times for each distance?

• →Half marathon: No cutoff time
• →Marathon: 10 hours (until 6:00 PM Saturday)
• →50 miler: 25 hours (until 9:00 AM Sunday)
• →100K: 25 hours (until 9:00 AM Sunday)
• →100 miler: 34 hours (until 6:00 PM Sunday)

What is the elevation gain for each race distance?

• →Half marathon: 2,326 feet
• →Marathon: 4,766 feet
• →50 miler: 9,538 feet
• →100K: 11,862 feet
• →100 miler: 17,925 feet

What trails are included in the course?

The course incorporates multiple interconnected trails including Tower, Rocktop, Crowders, Pinnacle, Turnback, Fern, and Ridgeline trails. Longer distances utilize repeated loops with turnarounds at the 161 Aid Station and Boulders Access points.

Where are the aid stations located?

The event features four main aid stations:

• →Crowders Ridge (start/finish location)
• →Wolf's Den (Wolf Base)
• →161 Aid Station
• →Boulders Access

What food and beverages are provided at aid stations?

Aid stations offer a variety of fueling options including bacon-wrapped pickles, cereal, sweets, salty snacks, fresh fruit, hot bacon, soup, and soft drinks. The primary fluid options are Tailwind and water.

Are trekking poles allowed?

Yes, trekking poles are permitted throughout the event for all distances.

Are pacers allowed?

Pacers are permitted only for the 100K and 100 miler distances, and only after the 50-mile point of the race.

How much does registration cost?

• →100 miler: $350.00 base price ($376.25 with taxes and fees) - 10 spots available
• →100K: $250.00 base price ($269.75 with taxes and fees)
• →50 miler: $175.00 base price ($189.87 with taxes and fees)
• →Marathon: $150.00 base price ($163.25 with taxes and fees)
• →Half marathon: $100.00 base price ($110.00 with taxes and fees)

When is the registration deadline?

Registration closes on Sunday, December 7, 2025, at 11:59 PM Eastern Time.

What special designations does this event have?

The Beast of the East 100 is designated as a Trail Sisters Approved Race, reflecting the event's commitment to welcoming and encouraging more women runners in ultramarathon events.

What weather should I expect in December at Kings Mountain?

Mid-December in Kings Mountain typically features cool winter conditions with temperatures ranging from the mid-40s to low-50s Fahrenheit (8-11°C). Participants should prepare for potentially muddy trail conditions, possible early morning frost, and the chance of rain. Layering is recommended, along with appropriate trail running shoes with good traction for potentially wet and slippery sections. The combination of elevation gain and cool temperatures means runners should plan accordingly with adequate fueling and hydration strategies for longer distances.