Cancer Active Trail Races

The Cancer Active Trail Race is a community-focused event held in Black Mountain, North Carolina. Scheduled for Saturday, May 16, 2026, the race is organized by Cancer Active, a 501(c)3 non-profit dedicated to inspiring cancer patients to maintain active lifestyles during and after treatment. All proceeds from the event fund patient self-assessment tools and connect survivors with specialized fitness coaches.

The event offers both an in-person trail experience and a virtual participation option. Staging begins at 7:30 AM at the primary race site.

The race is situated at 191 Vance Avenue, located in the Blue Ridge Mountains. The 5K route utilizes the trail networks near Pulliam Stadium, offering a mix of natural surfaces characteristic of the North Carolina high country. In mid-May, the region typically sees temperate spring weather with average highs of 22°C and lows of 10°C. While snow is not a factor, runners should anticipate potential mud on the trails and are advised to maintain awareness at intersections where volunteers will be stationed for safety. The course is not chip-timed; placement is determined by manual officiating.

Packet pickup is held on Friday, May 15, at the Mountain Running Company from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM, with a secondary window on race morning starting at 7:30 AM. The start area is located between Pulliam Stadium and the designated parking area. For safety, while earphones are permitted, the organizers recommend using only one earbud to remain alert to course instructions. Medical professionals and aid stations equipped with first-aid kits are stationed along the route to assist participants.

All participants who register by the designated deadline receive a race t-shirt. While the event does not offer refunds, it maintains a flexible policy regarding bib transfers and deferrals. Participants are permitted to transfer their entry to another runner or defer their participation to the following year’s event for any reason. Spectators are encouraged along most of the route but are required to stay clear of the participants' progress and follow all volunteer directions.