2026 Stone Mountain Massacre
The 2026 Stone Mountain Massacre is scheduled for February 21, 2026, in Stone Mountain State Park, located near Roaring Gap, North Carolina. The event takes place within Alleghany County, distinct from the more well-known Stone Mountain in Georgia. On this date, the area is expected to experience cold temperatures, with daytime highs ranging between 30°F and 35°F and the potential for fog, light snow, or icy conditions, typical of the North Carolina high country in February. The race offers a challenging trail running experience on rugged, technical singletrack trails, featuring rock scrambles, steep climbs, and exposed sections along the granite dome. Participants will navigate a looped course that includes the Stone Mountain Loop Trail, segments of the Mountains-to-Sea Trail, and the notorious "300 Stairs of Judgment" climb. The 50K route includes multiple loops with significant elevation gain and presents challenges such as roots, rocks, and stream crossings, all under the influence of variable winter conditions.
What distances are available for this event?
- →8-Mile race
- →25K (~15.5 miles) race
- →50K (~31 miles) race
What is the race schedule?
- →Start time: 8:00 AM
- →Course closure: 5:30 PM (10-hour time limit for 50K)
What is the course like?
- →The course runs on rugged, technical singletrack trails within Stone Mountain State Park.
- →The route begins near the Upper Parking Lot/Visitor Center area.
- →It incorporates the Stone Mountain Loop Trail, Mountains-to-Sea Trail segments, and connector trails descending to the Wolf Creek area.
- →The course includes the "300 Stairs of Judgment" climb.
- →The 50K consists of multiple loops with approximately 1,530 feet of elevation gain per loop.
- →Terrain features include granite outcrops, embedded rocks, root systems, steep ascents/descents, and potential winter weather hazards.
What kind of trail markings are used?
- →Trail markings use red ribbons and yellow arrows.
What aid stations are available on the course?
- →Five total aid stations (2 manned, 3 self-serve/unmanned) are positioned along the course.
- →Aid stations offer water, Tailwind electrolyte mix, soda, and solid foods including pickles, bacon, candy, cereal, and fruit.
What is included in the race registration?
- →Registration is managed via UltraSignup.
- →The "Six Stones" collection and "Blood Book" are themed finisher elements unique to this event.
- →Participants collect stone tokens at aid stations during the 50K.
- →Finishers receive handcrafted pottery keepsakes from local artisan BlueGill Pottery.
What is the race atmosphere like?
- →The event is known for its grassroots, community-focused atmosphere within the East Coast trail ultra scene.
What should participants expect in terms of weather?
- →The event takes place in February, when Roaring Gap experiences cold temperatures, fog, and potential for icy or snowy conditions.
- →Participants should prepare for variable winter weather hazards, including ice, mud, and fog.
What is the bib pickup policy?
- →Bib pickup is only available on race morning from 7:10 AM to 7:50 AM.