The Naturalist - Epic 25 / 50k

The Naturalist - Epic 25 / 50k takes place in Franklin, North Carolina, on October 3, 2026, organized by Outdoor 76. Two trail distances are offered on the same day: a 50K (31 miles) and a 25K (about 15.5 miles).

Franklin sits in the mountains of western North Carolina, and trail races in this part of the Appalachians generally bring sustained climbs, technical footing and plenty of roots, so plan on a slower pace than your usual trail time. The 25K is a good goal for runners who have completed a trail half marathon and want more distance and more vertical, while the 50K is a strong first mountain ultra for anyone with a marathon or a flatter 50K already done. Twelve weeks of preparation with weekly hill work will cover the 25K; for the 50K, extend that to 16 weeks and add back-to-back long runs on hilly trails. Early October in the Southern Appalachians usually offers cool mornings and comfortable afternoons, with the leaves starting to turn, but carry water and a light layer for the higher sections.