The Cruel Jewel 50, presented by Dumass Events, is an epic and notoriously challenging ultra-marathon set in the heart of the Chattahoochee National Forest. On May 16, 2026, runners will embark on a grueling 57.5 to 58-mile point-to-point journey, starting from the Byron Herbert Reece Heritage Farm in Blairsville, GA, and culminating at Camp Morganton in Blue Ridge, GA. This race is renowned for its immense difficulty, featuring over 17,000 feet of punishing elevation gain and loss through the rugged North Georgia Mountains.

The course is a relentless test of grit, primarily traversing technical single-track trails, with some sections of mountain roads. Participants will navigate steep ascents and descents through lush hardwood forests, encounter ferns, old-growth poplar trees, and cross an historic steel bridge over the Toccoa River. A highlight and notorious challenge is the "Dragon's Spine" section of the Duncan Ridge Trail, infamous for its absence of switchbacks, forcing runners straight up and down unforgiving inclines. Typical race day conditions in mid-May present highs around 76F and lows near 51F, with an 18% chance of precipitation, often contributing to the already "cruel" nature of the trails.

With 10 to 11 well-stocked aid stations providing everything from water and Tailwind to hot foods like soup and grilled cheese, runners will have support along this demanding route. The Cruel Jewel 50 is celebrated not only for its brutal physical demands—earning its reputation as one of the hardest 50-milers on the East Coast—but also for the stunning mountain vistas and the vibrant camaraderie among the tight-knit ultra-running community. It's an unforgettable experience for those seeking to push their limits against a backdrop of breathtaking natural beauty.