MOUNT CHEAHA 50K | The Race To The Top Of Alabama

My third running of this beautiful Southeastern trail ultra marathon didn't go as planned, but when do these things ever go as planned. The Mount Cheaha 50K is another Alabama classic, boasting some challenging east coast style terrain with nearly 6000 feet of vertical gain. What makes this race special isn't just the terrain, the 99% Single track and the fact that the entire course runs along the Pinhoti National Recreation Trail. It is also a point to point 50K. Runners can either take a shuttle to the race start on race morning or they can make their way to the race start on their own. The race finishes atop Alabama's highest point at Mount Cheaha in beautiful Mount Cheaha State Park.

While my race didn't turn out as hoped (when does it ever), we did luck out with some amazing weather and views. More importantly, I got to share some miles with good friends, old and new. And my slower progress allowed me to really take in the beauty this course has to offer. I highly recommend this race to anyone in the Southeast. It is a must do event organized by some of the best people in the business of putting on ultras. This and all other Pinhoti Trail Series races are a family affair. The organization is top notch and the swag AND food and drink at the finish are second to none.

I rate this one right up there with the Mountain Mist 50K and the Pinhoti 100 Miler.