Gear List

Mandatory Gear

All runners must carry the following mandatory items for the entire duration of the race. These requirements are non-negotiable.

• Capacity to carry a minimum of 1 liter of water (bottles or hydration bladder)

---

Recommended Gear

Weather conditions in the mountains can change rapidly and may include cold temperatures, rain, snow, wind, mud, or freezing conditions. We strongly encourage all runners to closely monitor the forecast leading up to race weekend and prepare accordingly. Race management will continue to provide weather updates as race day approaches.

The following items are strongly recommended. Runners may choose to carry these items, place them in a drop bag, or have them available with crew support (if applicable):

• Waterproof jacket

• Gloves

• Beanie or Buff

• Extra top layer (long sleeve recommended, preferably merino wool)

• Backup light source

• Thermal mylar (foil) blanket

• Antihistamine

• Epinephrine auto-injector (EpiPen®) if prescribed

• Course map or GPX file loaded on your phone or GPS watch

• Headlamp (not required, but highly recommended in case of emergency or unexpected delays)

---

Bib Information

• Each runner will be assigned an official race bib number.

• Bibs must be worn prominently on the front of the body and remain clearly visible at all times.

• Runners should know their bib number before entering each aid station.

• All runners must check in and check out at every aid station and verbally report their bib number to the volunteer. Please ensure the volunteer hears and confirms your number before leaving the aid station.

---

If You Need to Drop

If you are unable to continue and must withdraw from the race:

• You must locate the Aid Station Captain and inform them directly that you are dropping from the race.

• If you are out on the course and unable to continue, notify a member of the Swain County Rescue Squad or race staff so transportation back to the race site can be arranged if necessary.

• You must hand over your bib and wait until you have been officially recorded as a DNF (Did Not Finish).

• Do not leave the course, aid station, or race site until you have been cleared by the Race Timer, Aid Station Captain, or Race Director.

---

Important Safety Information

Runner accountability and safety are our top priorities throughout the event. Because the course travels through remote sections of the Nantahala National Forest, it is extremely important that race staff always know the location and status of every participant.

Do NOT leave the race site, an aid station, or the course without notifying race officials. Failure to properly check out can result in unnecessary search and rescue operations being initiated for your safety.

If you decide to drop at any point during the event, you are required to notify the Race Director, Race Timer, Aid Station Captain, or Swain County Rescue Squad personnel immediately. These procedures are in place to protect runners, volunteers, and emergency personnel and will be taken very seriously.