What distances are offered in the challenge?

• →16 Miler (Vertical Mile): Requires completing 8 loops
• →8 Miler (Half Vertical Mile): Requires completing 4 loops

What is the course layout and terrain like?

The race consists of a ~2-mile loop that includes:

• →A paved section along the rock face near the start/finish area
• →A ~0.5-mile trail climb
• →The "Stairway to Heaven," a very steep and exposed rock face climb
• →A ~1-mile downhill section returning to the start/finish

The terrain is characterized by steep ascents on rock surfaces and quad-pounding descents, requiring strong uphill power and downhill control.

What are the event schedule and timing details?

• →Race Start Time: 8:00 a.m.
• →Packet Pickup: Race morning only, from 6:30 a.m. to 7:45 a.m. at the venue

What is the registration fee?

• →Entry fee: $40 (plus applicable fees)

Note: There is no race-day registration available.

What awards and honors are presented?

• →Overall Male & Female (both distances)
• →Alexander County Male & Female
• →Fastest First Lap (Vertical Mile distance only; runners must complete all 8 loops to be eligible)

What aid and support are available on the course?

The main aid station is located at the start/finish area and provides:

• →Water, Gatorade, and soft drinks
• →Sweet and salty snacks
• →Pickles and pickle juice

Additional water is available at the top of the "Stairway to Heaven" and along the trail. Runners are strongly encouraged to carry their own hydration.

What equipment is recommended for participants?

• →A hydration system
• →Trail shoes with strong grip (due to potentially slick rock sections)
• →Trekking gloves (optional, for the steep rock climbing sections)

What are the current course records?

Vertical Mile (Men):

• →Race Record: 2:21 (Gavin Coombs, 2017)
• →Fastest First Lap: 16:12 (Gavin Coombs, 2017)

Vertical Mile (Women):

• →Race Record: 2:58:58 (Marisa Romeo, 2021)
• →Fastest First Lap: 20:13 (Kara Peschock, 2019)