High Country Turkey Trot 5K & 10K

We are back on the Boone Greenway Trail for the 16th Annual High Country Turkey Trot! Choose from a 5K or 10K timed race or an untimed Fun Run/Walk.

Taking place on Thanksgiving morning, The High Country Turkey Trot is open to competitive runners, casual joggers, walkers, and fun runners. Far from just a race, the event is fun for the entire family and includes a live DJ, photo-staging area, costumes, and a picnic shed full of food and hot drinks.

NEW FOR 2026: We've updated the course route by reducing elevation gain and improving the terrain. That means less hill climbs and more stable footing! The 5K and 10K races will take you on a scenic trip over mixed terrain (gravel, grass, and paved) through the woods via The Greenway and Kennedy Trails. Official course map to be revealed soon!

The Fun Run/Walk will utilize all paved trails throughout the park - making it accessible to everyone, including leashed dogs, strollers, wagons, wheelchairs, and other mobility aids. 

The High Country Turkey Trot offers prizes for top 3 Men's & Women's finishers in the 5k & 10k timed runs, Finisher Medals for all runners in the 5K and 10K timed runs, and custom High Country Turkey Trot T-Shirts for all entrants*.

All participants are asked to bring non-perishable boxes or canned food items!

The High Country Turkey Trot is LARGEST 5K & 10K in North Carolina's High Country. Join the fun on Thanksgiving morning 2026!

START TIME

• 10K Timed Race Start Time: 8:50

• 5K Timed Race Start Time: 9:00

• Fun Run/Walk Start Time: 9:10

ROUTE TERRAIN

• INTERACTIVE COURSE MAPS: CLICK HERE

• 5K & 10K RACE: Greenway Trail + Path – partially paved, mostly grass and wooded trail/dirt. 

• FUN RUN / WALK: Greenway Trail - 100% paved

AWARDS

All finishers will received a custom High Country Turkey Trot finisher medal!

Overall Winners: Top 3 overall men and women will receive custom HCTT swag and a Stick Boy Bread Co. pumpkin pie!

Age Groups: Top 3 in each age group will receive custom HCTT swag! Age groups are as follows: 9 & Under, 10-14, 15-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, 70+

FIRST AID PROVIDED BY: Watauga Rescue, stationed at the start/finish line.