Uwharrie Gold Rush

Come join us on October 19, 2024 for the fifth annual Uwharrie Gold Rush 50k. Gold Rush runners will traverse through the densely forested hills and rocky streams which birthed the North Carolina gold rush of the 1820s and 1830s. This infamous early 1800s gold rush led to North Carolina being the nation’s largest producer during that era and still produces gold for lucky prospectors today.

Race will begin at 8:00 am on Saturday, October 19, 2024 at Wood Run Trailhead.

Race has a 12 Hour Cutoff.

The Uwharrie Gold Rush is held on the same course as the Uwharrie 100 mile and 100K trail runs.

This 50K course is a modified loop of the infamous “Simply Unrelenting” 100m course which will push even seasoned trail runners to their limits. It’s true, the Uwharrie course may not have the “epic views” of other NC courses, but we guarantee it is likely as difficult as those with sweeping ridge lines and steep, 6 miles descents.

Uwharrie Gold Rush Runners will complete the blue southern portion of the figure 8 loop first (11.5 miles) and then will finish with a complete loop of the yellow figure 8 course (20.5 miles) to finish their event.

Total elevation gain throughout the course is approximately 5,070 feet and 5,070 feet of elevation loss for a total of 10,140 feet of elevation change throughout the 32 mile course.

This course is very technical, has little flat ground and for the uninitiated, is a surprisingly stern challenge.

*The 50K has a 12 hour cutoff for a MINIMUM 23:10 min/mile average pace.

*No pacers are allowed.

*Remote Aid Drop Bags are not allowed for the 50K. Start/Finish Drop Bags are acceptable, and are accessible at mile 11.5 and 32 of the 50K course.

Aid Stations

Uwharrie Gold Rush Runners will encounter some of the best stocked aid stations throughout the Ultra Community every 4-6 miles. We can without a doubt promise you will not go hungry at this race; just ask any veteran Uwharrie 100 runner.

Directions to Aid Stations

Start/Finish Aid Station (Mile 0, 11.5 & 32) - Located off of HWY 24/27 just east of River Road. Drop bags are available at this aid station and Crew can access this aid station. Google Maps link to location is available here.

Crossroads Aid Station (Mile 6, 17.5 & 26.5) - Located at the center of the figure eight loop. Crew CANNOT access this aid station.

Kelly’s Kitchen Aid Station (Mile 23.2) - Located off of Dusty Level Road just west of Yates Place Campground. Crew can access this aid station. Google Maps link to location is available here.