2026 Yonah Mountain Vertical Challenge - Official Event Logo
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Cleveland, United States
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Trail
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25 km, 50 km, 75 km
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21 February 2026 - 22 February 2026
The 2026 Yonah Mountain Vertical Challenge will take place on February 21 and 22, 2026, at the Yonah Mountain Trailhead, near Cleveland, Georgia. Participants can expect a technical trail running event characterized by steep, rocky, and rooty terrain with scrambling sections, set against the backdrop of a mountain environment. The event will be held on Yonah Mountain, which rises over 3,000 feet above sea level, and the weather in Cleveland on these dates is expected to be cold and potentially wet, with a chance of rain or snow. The course will feature repeated loops from the trailhead to the summit, with significant elevation gain and technical sections that require careful navigation. The race is designed for experienced runners who are comfortable with high-altitude, mountainous conditions and are prepared for a physically demanding challenge.
What distances are available for this event?
→50K (Saturday): Approximately 50 kilometers with 10,000 feet of climbing across six ascents/descents of Yonah Mountain
→25K (Sunday): Approximately 25 kilometers with 5,000 feet of climbing across three ascents/descents of Yonah Mountain
→Double Up: Compete in both Saturday and Sunday events
→50K Relay (Saturday only): Two-person team alternating ascents at their discretion
What are the event cutoff times?
→10 hours for 50K (must begin final summit attempt by 4:00 PM Saturday)
→8 hours for 25K (must begin final summit attempt by 3:00 PM Sunday)
What gear is required for the event?
→Personal water vessel (cup-less event)
→Waterproof shell/jacket
→Trail-appropriate footwear capable of handling technical, rocky terrain
What is the course like?
→The course follows the Yonah Mountain Trail in repeated loops from the trailhead to the summit and back
→Each loop covers approximately five miles with significant elevation gain
→The trail is predominantly technical and steep, featuring rocky and rooty sections with required scrambling over boulders in certain areas
→Near the summit, the path transitions to a dirt/gravel double-track
→Runners begin each loop with a short out-and-back on a gravel access road to disperse the field before entering the singletrack trail
→Participants pass through the main trailhead aid station after every loop
→Expect variable conditions including wet, muddy, or icy terrain depending on weather
What aid stations are available?
→Full aid station at trailhead (passed every loop) with Precision Fuel electrolyte mix, hot food, and dietary-inclusive options
→Minimal water stop near summit for emergencies only
Are hiking poles allowed?
→Yes, hiking poles are permitted
What are the rules regarding crewing and pacing?
→No pacers or crew allowed on trail
→Limited vehicle-based crewing permitted at trailhead due to space constraints
Where is the after-party located?
→The after-party will be hosted at NoFo Brew Co, located two miles from the trailhead
→Saturday: 6:00 PM
→Sunday: 5:00 PM
What are the event's weather policies?
→The event runs rain or shine
→The event may be modified or cancelled for severe weather per U.S. Forest Service guidance
→Weather at elevation can differ drastically from trailhead conditions
Is this event self-supported?
→Yes, this is a self-supported mountain race with no bailout points near the summit
Has this event sold out in previous years?
→Yes, the event sold out in both 2024 and 2025
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When is 2026 Yonah Mountain Vertical Challenge?
