Bad Beard Events Rabid Raccoon 25k

Tackle a thrilling, alternating-direction challenge at the Rabid Raccoon 25k, an epic middle-distance trail race on **Saturday, January 17, 2026**, starting atop Raccoon Mountain in Chattanooga, Tennessee. Hosted by Bad Beard Events, this unique course utilizes the mountain's iconic technical trails—like Megawatt, Grindstone Ridge, and Live Wire—and changes direction each year; the 2026 edition will be run **counter-clockwise**, offering a fresh perspective on its 2,200 feet of rugged climbing. With a strict 5-hour cutoff and a cupless mandate, this race demands self-sufficiency and respect for the challenging, beautiful terrain that defines Chattanooga's trail running scene.

Starting at 8:30 AM from the scenic Laurel Point, the event blends competitive spirit with a strong community focus, featuring two well-stocked aid stations, post-race food, and proceeds benefiting local trail advocacy through SORBA. It's the perfect January test for runners seeking a serious, well-organized adventure on classic Southern singletrack, where every twist and turn reveals another stunning view of the Tennessee River Gorge.