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A very scenic and great first longer trail race in the Nantahala National Forest by Fontana Lake.


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Map Key

17.7

Miles

28.5

KM

97%

Runnable

1,991' 607 m

High

1,704' 519 m

Low

1,342' 409 m

Up

1,261' 384 m

Down

3%

Avg Grade (2°)

14%

Max Grade (8°)

Dogs No Dogs

Features Lake · River/Creek · Views · Wildlife

Overview

This race is an annual classic! It always sells out before registration closes. It is part of the Tsali Frosty Foot Fest which includes an 8K, 30K, and 50K. From the beginner to the experienced runner, this is one event that everyone should do at least once. Participants get to enjoy first hand the Tsali Trail System, which lies in the majestic mountains of Western North Carolina. Tsali features some of the most well-groomed and breathtaking trails in the world stretching alongside scenic Fontana Lake.

Need to Know

This is a winter race. Come prepared for all possible conditions. See website for all the details and to register.

Runner Notes

It is an easy drive to the location on paved roads. Please car pool since parking is very limited at the start line. Weather delay date is Saturday January 22, 2022.

Description

With expansive views of Fontana Lake and the Great Smoky Mountains, every participant will come away with lasting memories of the beauty that this course presents at every turn. Rolling trails, good footing, aid station support, great volunteers, and enjoying the experience with other runners makes for a fun day out on these trails! See the website for all the event details.

Come join us for an amazing day at The Tsali Frosty Foot Fest!

The trails are calling...will you answer?

Flora & Fauna

Wildlife include turkey, deer, and grouse.

History & Background

The Tsali Recreation Area is named after Tsali, who was a was a noted leader of the Cherokee Tribe of Native Americans.

Contacts

Shared By:

Good Endurance

Trail Ratings

  4.5 from 2 votes

#3202

Overall
  4.5 from 2 votes
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Recommended Route Rankings

#125

in North Carolina

#3,202

Overall
58 Views Last Month
1,754 Since Oct 12, 2020
Intermediate Intermediate

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Photos

Fontana Lake, from the Tsali Left Loop. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is across the lake.
Sep 5, 2017 near Bryson…, NC
Tsali Left Loop Trail along Fontana Lake/Mouse Branch, Smokey Mountain National Park in the background.
Sep 5, 2017 near Bryson…, NC
Left Loop view.
Sep 5, 2017 near Bryson…, NC
View from the course
Dec 13, 2017 near Bryson…, NC
The remains of an old home on one of the Tsali Left Loop.
Sep 5, 2017 near Bryson…, NC
At the trailhead
Jul 29, 2015 near Bryson…, NC

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