In 5 days · Sat, Sep 26, 2026
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Saturday, September 26th, 2026
Western Carolina University - Stillwell Science Building, Cullowhee NC
5K
55–75°F · low rain risk
See last 10 years
On this date: rain 3 of the last 10 years
2025
60–75°F
dry
2024
62–67°F
rain
2023
55–79°F
dry
2022
53–69°F
dry
2021
49–70°F
dry
2020
59–72°F
dry
2019
61–80°F
dry
2018
64–72°F
rain
2017
56–79°F
dry
2016
63–80°F
rain
Best months to race in North Carolina →
Race-day forecast · Saturday, Sep 26
Cloudy · 51–76°F
Saturday, Sep 26starts near 51°F · 7% chance of rain · wind up to 7 mph
About this race
Race Overview
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.
Festival Experience
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!
Awards & Categories
- Age Categories: 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.
- Awards: Custom handcrafted awards provided by Mud Dabbers Pottery & Crafts (Balsam, NC)
- Top Finishers: 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.
- Participant Cap: This race is capped at 250 participants to maximize the race day experience for all!
Links
Registration
For more information and to register, visit the race page at Mountain Heritage Days 5K.
Course map
Hotels for race weekend
Live prices near the start line, Sep 25 – 27, 2026.
Train with a club
Run clubs near Cullowhee to train with before race day.
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