The 2026 Pilot Mountain Salamander Scamper is scheduled for February 21, 2026, in Pinnacle, North Carolina, within Pilot Mountain State Park. The event is expected to take place under partly cloudy conditions with temperatures ranging from 30 to 40 degrees Fahrenheit. Participants will embark on a 25K (approximately 15.5 miles) trail running course that traverses forested terrain, featuring significant elevation changes and technical sections. The race begins at the Pilot Creek Trailhead and includes a challenging ascent along the Ledge Springs Trail, followed by a scenic loop around the Pinnacle rock formation and a descent through rugged mountain trails. The course is designed for experienced trail runners and includes three aid stations, a cut-off time, and a limited field of 125 runners.
What is the distance of the 2026 Pilot Mountain Salamander Scamper?
→25K (approximately 15.5 miles)
What is the course description for the event?
The course begins at the Pilot Creek Trailhead and follows Pilot Creek Trail to the campground. Runners then proceed onto Grindstone Trail before ascending the steep and technical Ledge Springs Trail to the summit area. At the top, the route continues onto Jomeokee Trail, circling the Pinnacle rock formation counterclockwise. The descent follows Grindstone Trail and Mountain Trail before reconnecting with Grindstone Trail and Pilot Creek Trail for the return to the start/finish area. The course features substantial climbing, rocky sections, and technical terrain.
What are the key details of the event?
→Three fully stocked aid stations at approximately miles 3, 7, and 13 offering water, Gatorade, Coke, energy gels, and fruit
→A 2:30 pm course cut-off time
→A limited field of 125 runners
→Registration includes a long-sleeve technical shirt (size guaranteed if registered by January 5), a hot post-race meal, and a large laser-engraved finisher's medallion
→Dry camping available at Jomeokee Campground, located just six minutes from the start
→Packet pickup available Friday, February 20 (4:00–5:30 pm) at the Pilot Mountain State Park Visitor Center and race morning from 8:15–9:15 am
→Registration fee: $80 ($87.50 including taxes and fees)
→The event proceeds rain or shine unless Pilot Mountain State Park closes due to hazardous weather conditions
How much does registration cost?
→$80 (regular registration)
→$87.50 (including taxes and fees)
What is included in the registration?
→A long-sleeve technical shirt (size guaranteed if registered by January 5)
→A hot post-race meal
→A large laser-engraved finisher's medallion
Is dry camping available?
→Yes, dry camping is available at Jomeokee Campground, located just six minutes from the start.
When is packet pickup available?
→Packet pickup is available on Friday, February 20, from 4:00–5:30 pm at the Pilot Mountain State Park Visitor Center
→Packet pickup is also available race morning from 8:15–9:15 am
What is the course cut-off time?
→The course cut-off time is 2:30 pm.
What is the event’s weather policy?
→The event proceeds rain or shine unless Pilot Mountain State Park closes due to hazardous weather conditions.
Is the event limited to a certain number of runners?
→Yes, the event has a limited field of 125 runners.
