Assault on BlackRock

About the event

How does running a seven-mile trail race with 2,770 feet of elevation gain sound? Trail runners who compete in the Assault on BlackRock trail race will summit BlackRock at 5,810 feet - and that’s just the halfway point of the race. The course weaves through the spruce forests along the spine of the Plott Balsam Mountains on challenging rocky/dirt roads and single track. The final climb to the summit ridge comprises 650 feet of elevation gain in 1/3 of a mile on steep single track.

T-shirts are guaranteed to runners registered prior to 3/1/2026. Awards will be given to the overall top 3 female and male finishers and the top individual female and male "Masters" finishers (50+). For those looking for an additional challenge, runners who complete the BlackRock 101 Challenge will receive a belt buckle. All proceeds from this race will go to the Sylva Art & Design Committee with a focus on bringing more art (outdoor murals) to downtown Sylva.

BlackRock 101 Challenge

Anyone who completes the course in 101 minutes or less (1 hour 41 minutes) will earn a belt buckle. Can anyone break the 1 hour mark? The first participant to complete the course on race day in under 1 hour will receive a $400 cash award!