Trail runners from near and far are gearing up for the Black Copperhead Sting at Rocky Branch Park in Belmont, NC on August 14, 2027. This ultra trail race is renowned for its challenging course that bites back with every step. The event kicks off early on a summer morning as participants arrive to pick up their bibs between 7:10 and 7:50 AM. The race officially starts at 8:00 AM sharp, leaving no room for excuses or delays. Runners are given ten hours to complete the loop course, which must be finished by 5:30 PM. The route is a relentless 3.24-mile lap with significant elevation gain of 293 feet per loop. The trail winds through rocky terrain and dense forest, marked only by blazing red ribbons and arrows that guide runners through twists, climbs, roots, and rocks. This course doesn't cater to the faint-hearted; it's designed for those who thrive on pushing their limits. Aid stations are strategically placed along the route, offering a haven of trail fuel essentials such as pickles, candy, cereal, pretzels, fruit, and yes—bacon—to keep runners energized. Water, Tailwind, and sodas ensure hydration is never an issue. First aid support is available but rarely needed; this race is about self-sufficiency. Trekking poles are welcome for the challenging terrain, and both runners and walkers are encouraged to participate. The event respects nature's unpredictability—rain or shine, it goes on as planned without cancellations. Upon crossing the finish line, participants earn a handmade pottery medal from BlueGill Pottery, each piece unique like every racer’s journey. This isn’t just about finishing; it’s about creating memories that last. Live results are available at UltraSignup.com and race photos will be posted one week after the event on social media platforms under @dirty_wolf_racing with hashtags #blackcopperheadsting and #dirtywolfracing for sharing your triumphs. This year's Black Copperhead Sting promises to deliver a mix of grit, grind, and glory. Lace up your shoes, show up ready to run wild, and sting hard on August 14th.
Races Offered
25K
Aug 14, 2027
straighten
Distance —
25K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
08:00
sell
$60.00
5K
Aug 14, 2027
straighten
Distance —
5K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
08:00
sell
$25.00
50K
Aug 14, 2027
straighten
Distance —
50K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
08:20
sell
$90.00
Weather History
These values represent the 3-year monthly averages for August in Belmont.
thermostatTemperature
20.4° / 30.2°
wb_sunnyFeels like
22.0° / 31.8°
light_mode
Avg sunshine hours
10h 44m
water_drop
Avg rainfall
4.5 mm
ac_unit
Avg snowfall
—
air
Avg wind speed
8.0 km/h (Light breeze)
opacity
Sweat loss rate
Very high
terrain
Course conditions
Hard and dry surface
sunny
Max UV Index
High (7.0)
humidity_mid
Humidity
73.8%
wb_twilight
Sunrise
06:44
nightlight
Sunset
20:10
About Belmont
Learn more about the host city, Belmont.
Belmont is a small suburban city in Gaston County, North Carolina, United States, located about 9 miles (14 km) east of Gastonia. The population was 15,010 at the 2020 census. The area was once known as Garibaldi Station, namely after the railroad stop created in the early 1870s. This was named after John Garibaldi, the engineer who oversaw the construction of the railroad and construction of the first water tower in town.