2026 Burra Burra Trout Trot 5K

The 2026 Burra Burra Trout Trot 5K is a distinctive evening racing event scheduled for Saturday, April 25, 2026, in the border towns of McCaysville, Georgia, and Copperhill, Tennessee. Part of the unique Riverwalk Run Series, this "two-state 5K" coincides with the Blue Ridge Trout Fest and celebrates America's 250th birthday. The 3.1-mile course is an official Peachtree Road Race qualifier, featuring a scenic route that winds alongside the Toccoa River and crosses the state line twice. The event is designed to be inclusive, welcoming runners, walkers, strollers, and pets for a sunset run through the heart of the Appalachian mountains.

Event Logistics and Participation

Race day activities center around the McCaysville Visitor Center, with bib and shirt pickup available from 3:30 PM to 6:15 PM. The race utilizes "gun to chip" timing in accordance with USATF rules, and all finishers receive a commemorative medal. The course is noted for being mostly flat with only one significant hill, making it accessible for a variety of fitness levels. While the start and finish lines are at different locations, free parking is conveniently situated across from McCaysville City Park. As a "rain or shine" event, participants are encouraged to prepare for mountain spring weather and bring their own on-course hydration, though water is provided at the finish line.

Regional and Community Context

McCaysville (30555) is a unique "twin city" located in Fannin County, Georgia, seamlessly connected to its neighbor, Copperhill, Tennessee. The two towns are separated only by a blue line painted across the pavement, marking the state boundary. The 2026 population for this combined mountain community is approximately 1,200 residents. The local economy is heavily anchored by heritage tourism, outdoor recreation, and the Riverwalk Shops. The community has a median household income of approximately $48,000, reflecting a mix of local service industry roles and a growing number of residents in the vacation rental and hospitality sectors.

The geography is defined by the Toccoa River (which becomes the Ocoee River upon crossing into Tennessee), a premier destination for fly fishing and whitewater sports. The median age in the McCaysville area is 46.2 years, though the population swells significantly during the spring and summer months with visitors drawn to the Appalachian trailheads and regional festivals. The Burra Burra Trout Trot is a cornerstone of the spring season, celebrating the region's status as the "Trout Capital of Georgia." This event serves as a vital bridge for local commerce between the two states, highlighting the shared history of the Copper Basin and the vibrant, modern culture of the Blue Ridge Mountains.