Mt Yonah Vertical Race

Prepare for an exhilarating challenge at the Mt Yonah Vertical Race, set to test your limits on February 21, 2026, in scenic Cleveland, GA. This highly popular event, known to sell out, promises an unforgettable journey across 50K with a staggering 10,000 feet of vertical gain as you conquer six summits of Yonah Mountain. For 2026, a new 2-person relay option adds another exciting dimension to the 50K event, allowing teams to tackle the mountain together.

The course is a true test of grit, following the technical and steep Yonah Mountain hiking trail. Runners should be ready for rocky, rooty sections, including parts that demand scrambling over boulders. As you ascend, the trail transitions to a more runnable dirt/gravel double-track near each summit, rewarding your efforts with breathtaking panoramic views. Aid station support is robust; a full aid station at the main trailhead, which runners pass approximately every five miles, provides Precision Fuel carb/electrolyte mix, hot food, and gluten-free and plant-based options. A water stop is also strategically placed near the summit, but remember, this is a cup-less event, so bring your hydration vessels.

Typical race day conditions in late February present highs around 56°F and lows near 31°F, with a 22% chance of precipitation, so come prepared for varying weather that can feel drastically different at the summit. The race emphasizes self-sufficiency and proper gear, including adequate footwear and a waterproof shell. The start and finish are in the main gravel parking lot for Mt Yonah, and carpooling is highly recommended due to limited space. Celebrate your monumental accomplishment at the after-party hosted at NoFo Brew Co, just two miles from the trailhead.