2026 Whiskey Tango Foxtrot Trail Half Marathon and 5 Mile

The Whiskey Tango Foxtrot Trail Half Marathon & 5 Mile is scheduled for January 17, 2026, at Northeast Park in Gibsonville, North Carolina. This event is characterized by its highly variable winter conditions, with past races experiencing temperatures ranging from 85 degrees and dry to 35 degrees with slippery trails and uncrossable rivers. Participants can expect a rugged trail experience on natural singletrack and doubletrack terrain that may include roots, rocks, mud, and elevation changes, embracing the unpredictable nature of the race.

What is the date and location of the event?

• →Date: Saturday, January 17, 2026
• →Location: Northeast Park, 3421 Northeast Park Drive, Gibsonville, NC 27249

What distances are available for this event?

• →Half Marathon (13.1 miles) with two river crossings
• →5 Mile

What are the start times for the races?

• →Half Marathon Ruck Division and Early Start: 8:30 AM EST
• →Half Marathon Standard Start: 9:30 AM EST
• →5 Mile: 9:30 AM EST

How much does registration cost for the Half Marathon?

• →Standard Entry: $77
• →Economy (No Frills): $52
• →Ruck Division: $77
• →Early Start (No Awards): $77

How much does registration cost for the 5 Mile?

• →Standard Entry: $55
• →Economy (No Frills): $38
• →Ruck Division: $55

Is there a virtual option available?

• →Price: $40
• →Dates: Complete your distance anywhere between Jan 1–17, 2026
• →Swag: Receive select swag (hoodie, medal, sticker) by mail

What is included in the standard registration?

• →Custom "WTF" Race Hoodie
• →Mega Finisher Medal
• →"WTF" Bumper Sticker
• →Post-race food and one beer (21+)
• →Free race photos
• →Chip timing with live results
• →Part of the North Carolina Trail Mega Medal Series

What is included in the Economy registration?

• →Custom "WTF" Race Hoodie
• →Mega Finisher Medal
• →Does not include the sticker, beer, or photos

What are the course conditions and terrain?

• →Terrain: Natural singletrack and doubletrack trails featuring roots, rocks, mud, and elevation changes
• →Weather: Conditions are unpredictable, ranging from warm and dry to freezing with slick, hazardous trails
• →River Crossings: Two full crossings of the Reedy Fork River for the Half Marathon; crossings are not guaranteed and a bypass may be used if unsafe

What is the event's registration deadline?

• →January 17, 2026 at 9:30 AM EST (except 5 Mile Ruck, which is until 11:59 PM)

What is the "WTF" attitude?

• →The race embraces whatever weather Mother Nature delivers, celebrating adaptability, grit, and humor in the face of winter trail challenges.

Is this event part of a larger series?

• →Yes, it is part of the North Carolina Trail Mega Medal Series, where runners can collect medals from multiple races to earn an ultimate series award.