Mountain Heritage Days 5K Walk/Run 2026 — Cullowhee, NC

Date
September 26, 2026
Location
Cullowhee, NC
Venue
Western Carolina University - Stillwell Science Building
Start Time
8:30 AM
Sunrise
7:22 AM
Entry Fee
$20.00 – $25.00
Events
Mountain Heritage Days 5K
Register NowRegistration Open
Western Carolina University's Sport Management Association invites you to the 16th annual Mountain Heritage Days 5K on Saturday, September 26, 2026! This is a family-friendly chip-timed race for both runners and walkers. The course features a combination of pavement and gravel paths and is appropriate for both beginner and accomplished runners as well as leisure walkers. Participants will dash through WCU's campus past iconic landmarks, including the 'Catafount' water fountain and Alumni Tower. Come enjoy a fun way to stay active while experiencing Western Carolina University's beautiful campus! All proceeds from the 5k race support the Sport Management Association Scholarship Fund. After completing the race take a short stroll or shuttle ride to the award-winning Mountain Heritage Days festival, celebrating Southern Appalachian mountain culture through live musical performances and demonstrations, food and craft vendors, and a variety of family-friendly activities. Admission to the festival is always free! Age categories for awards: 14 & under / 15-19 / 20-29 / 30-39 / 40-49 / 50-59 / 60-69 / 70 & up Chip timing provided by Right On Time Productions Inc. Custom handcrafted awards provided by Mud Dabbers Pottery & Crafts (Balsam, NC) Awards to the top overall male and female finishers, and for the top 3 male and female finishers in each age category. Race T-shirt guaranteed to the first 150 registered participants This race is capped at 250 participants to maximize the race day experience for all! LIVE RESULTS COMPLETE AGE GROUP RESULTS

Course & Travel Notes

Mountain Heritage Days 5K Walk/Run takes place in Cullowhee, North Carolina on September 26, 2026, with the race starting at 8:30 AM—about an hour after sunrise at 7:24 AM. The venue sits at an elevation of 2,106 feet, so plan your training accordingly if you're coming from lower elevations. Asheville Regional Airport (AVL) is your nearest flying option, located 36.7 miles from the race site. Expect typical fall weather for late September in the area, with highs around 79°F and lows near 56°F, though there's roughly a one-in-three chance of measurable rain on race day.

⛰️ 2,106 ft elevation☀️ Typically 79°F / 56°F · 32% chance of rain✈️ Asheville Regional Airport (AVL) — 36.7 mi

Hotels Near This Race

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Mountain Heritage Days 5K Walk/Run 2026 — Cullowhee, NC

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Race Travel Insurance

Don't forget travel insurance for September 26.

You've trained for months and booked a trip to Cullowhee, NC. A pre-race injury, a delayed flight, or a family emergency can derail the whole thing. Travel insurance can help cover your race entry fee, hotel, and flights if you can't make it, and may cover medical costs if something goes wrong on the course. Plans typically only run 5-7% of your total trip cost — and running events are covered under standard plans with no additional coverage needed.

  • Trip cancellation up to 100% of prepaid costs
  • Running events covered under standard plans — no add-ons needed
  • Trip interruption up to 150% of non-refundable costs
  • Emergency medical up to $250,000
  • Cancel For Any Reason add-on available
  • 24/7 real-time support
Get a Quote — Faye Travel Insurance

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Frequently Asked Questions

When is Mountain Heritage Days 5K Walk/Run 2026 — Cullowhee, NC?

Mountain Heritage Days 5K Walk/Run 2026 — Cullowhee, NC takes place on September 26, 2026. The race is held in Cullowhee, North Carolina.

Where is Mountain Heritage Days 5K Walk/Run 2026 — Cullowhee, NC held?

Mountain Heritage Days 5K Walk/Run 2026 — Cullowhee, NC is held at Western Carolina University - Stillwell Science Building in Cullowhee, North Carolina.

Where can I find hotels near Mountain Heritage Days 5K Walk/Run 2026 — Cullowhee, NC?

RaceHotelFinder shows hotels sorted by distance from the race venue in Cullowhee. Use the map or list view on this page to compare options and book race weekend accommodation.