Prepare for an unforgettable challenge at the Music City Trail Ultra, set to unfold on March 7, 2026, in the scenic backcountry of Pegram, Tennessee. Offering grueling distances of 50K, 25K, and 12K, this race is renowned for its demanding yet rewarding course that plunges runners into the heart of the Cheatham Wildlife Games Reserve. Starting from a welcoming family farm, participants will navigate 20,000 acres of beautiful steep trails, rugged jeep roads, and technical single-track paths, promising stunning ridge-line views and an authentic Tennessee trail experience. Expect a diverse landscape featuring challenging climbs, steep descents, stream crossings, and sections covered with rocks, roots, and leaves, ensuring every step is an adventure.

The Music City Trail Ultra has earned a reputation as a truly hard course, particularly the 50K, which is advised for runners capable of finishing within a 9-hour cutoff. Runners consistently praise the well-marked routes, the challenging elevation changes, and the friendly atmosphere. Aid stations, strategically placed approximately every 5 to 6 miles, will keep you fueled with water, Gatorade, and various snacks to power you through the formidable terrain, with strict cut-off times in place to ensure runner safety. Typical race day conditions in early March often bring highs around 58F and lows near 37F, with a 20% chance of precipitation, creating potentially muddy and slick sections that add to the course's legendary difficulty.

What truly sets the Music City Trail Ultra apart is its vibrant, runner-focused atmosphere, starting with bagpipes at the launch and culminating in a festive finish line celebration. Instead of traditional medals, finishers are celebrated with a unique pint glass and the camaraderie of post-race pizza and a refreshing Jackalope Brew. For those seeking an extra layer of challenge, the event also proudly hosts a HardRUCK division, inviting participants to complete their chosen distance with a weighted pack. This race is more than just a run; it's a testament to grit, community, and the wild beauty of Tennessee's trails.