General Info
Welcome to the Tsali Ultra!
This event is an annual classic! Now in it's thirteenth year, it always sells out before registration closes. From the beginner to the experienced runner, this is one event that everyone should do at least once. Participants get to enjoy first hand the world class Tsali Trail System, nestled in the majestic Nantahala National Forest mountains of Western North Carolina. Tsali features some of the best well-groomed and breathtaking trails in the world stretching alongside scenic Fontana Lake.
With expansive views of Fontana Lake and the Great Smoky Mountains, every participant will come away with lasting memories of the beauty that this course presents at every turn. Rolling trails, good footing, aid station support, great volunteers, and enjoying the experience with other runners makes for a fun day out on these trails!
Event Detail Highlights
Click here for location/directions.
PARKING IS VERY LIMITED! PLEASE CARPOOL!!
All events take place January 18, 2025 (weather delay date January 25, 2025).
Packet Pickup Will Start in Boat Parking Lot at 6:30 AM. (Sunrise is at 7:43 AM)
Start Times (All times are EST):
50K - 8 AM
30K - 9 AM
8K - 9:30 AM
Cut-offs
Cut-offs
8K – ALL runners have 7 hours to complete the race
30K – ALL runners have 8 hours to complete the race
50K – ALL runners 9.5 hours to complete the race.
Murphy’s Branch: Mile 6.5 (Cutoff time of 10:00 AM)
Murphy’s Branch: Mile 13.4 (No Cutoff)
Trailhead: Mile 14.2 (Cutoff time 12:21 PM)
Water Drop: Mile 19.9 (No Cutoff)
Crossroads: (Mile 23)(Cutoff time of 3:00 PM)
Water Drop: Mile (No Cutoff)
Finish Line: (Mile 30.9)(Cutoff time of 5:30 PM)
“Cut-off times will be strictly enforced for the safety of the runners and the volunteers”
Course Info
8K: Click Here
30K: Click Here
50K: Click Here
Aid Stations/Drop Bags
See the event website for aid station/drop bag details.
THIS IS A CUPLESS RACE!
Other than for hot liquids/sodas, you will need to supply your own cup/drinking container!
What Will I Get?
- Unique custom finishers award
- Top 3 Male & Female in Awards for Each Event
- Overall Male & Female Master Awards in Each Event
- Overall Male & Female Grand Master Awards in Each Event
- Hooded Pullover Sweatshirt
- Some other useful surprise swag
- Finishers hot food and other yummies!
What Will the Weather Be Like?
This race is in the middle of winter. Temps average mid 20's at night and mid to high 40's during the day. However it could be bitterly cold or a balmy 60 degrees. It usually rains about a third of the month. Snow is a distinct possibility also. So be prepared for any condition and you probably won't be disappointed! If forecasted conditions are of significant concern, the race will be postponed until the following weekend. That decision will typically be made at least 48 hours prior to the event, but could be less.
Weather Delay Date
Due to weather conditions (after all, this is the middle of January!), the race is subject to being postponed. So by registering, you are accepting the fact that the if the race has to be postponed, the make-up date will be Jan. 27, 2024 (conditions permitting). There will be no refunds if you cannot participate on the make up date since that date has already been advertised. By registering, you are accepting that you will be available if this make-up date is necessary or you will forego participating. See the event website for further details.
Lodging
Packet Pickup / Pre Race/Post Race Location: Iron Horse Motorcycle Lodge: 828-479-3864
Location is 13 Mins from Start/Finish Line - 8 Miles Away.
Multiple Sleeping Options Available.
- BunkHouse
- Heated Covered Wagons
- Lodging Rooms
- Cabin Rooms
- Luxury Cabins for Groups
Call To Reserve Your Room - 828-479-3864
Click Here for more info on Iron Horse Mototcycle Lodge
Are There Refunds/Deferrals/Transfers?
If you want to potentially be reimbursed if you are not able to participate, we recommend you consider purchasing event registration insurance to cover yourself. We do not provide this service for you. We do not provide refunds, deferments, rollover credits, transfer of entry fees, etc, regardless of the circumstances. Selling/giving your bib to someone else is not permitted. Thank you for your understanding, cooperation, and support.
In Closing...
Again, please review all of the details on the event website. Then tell your peeps and get everyone registered. We can't wait to have you join us for an amazing day at the Tsali Ultra! The trails are calling...will you answer?
