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Beech Mtn 10k ClimbMAX to Challenge Endurance Athletes on June 22

Ready to take it to the MAX in Eastern America's highest town?

The Beech Mountain 10k ClimbMAX, presented by BeechMtn.com, will challenge runners with a demanding course on Saturday, June 22.

The race includes more than 800 total feet of elevation gain. The first two miles will be mostly downhill, winding along a scenic stretch of Beech Mountain Parkway toward the ski village.

From that point, it's a long, steady uphill climb - punctuated by several switchbacks and long-range vistas - to a height of 5,443 feet, just below the mountain's summit.

The route replaces a fairly challenging 5-mile course upon which the town hosted an event known as A Cool 5 for several years.

"We wanted to take advantage of our altitude differentials, highlighting descents, ascents, vistas and our beautiful township," said race director Tim Fox of Beech Mountain Parks & Recreation. "It will be unlike any other race course we know of on the East Coast."

As in previous years, there will be a simultaneous fun run/walk for family members and others of all ages. Strollers/pets are allowed & encouraged in the fun run. There will also be a 5k.

However, the main ClimbMAX 10k event is geared toward the serious runner.

"We're looking to attract not only locally competitive runners of all age groups, but also runners from across the country. We want this to become a major event on the East Coast," Fox said. "If you think other races are challenging, try this one."

Course-side lodging specials will be available, along with post-race activities.

The entry fee for adults is $30 through May 20; and $35 from May 21 until race day. Race day registration is $40. Children 13 and under may register at any time for $20.

Entry fees include a t-shirt, goodie bags, and post-race activities.

"Endurance will be a key. There will be hairpin turns, short climbing bursts and short bursts of down elevations, as well as long, grinding up elevations," said Fox. "People are always looking for that challenge, for that one event that takes it up a notch and tests them. This is it."

Click here for complete info on the Beech Mountain 10k ClimbMAX, or call (828) 387-3003.

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Beech Bike Park Opens June 7, Provides Lift Access to Two Trail Systems!

Beech Mountain Resort's push to become a year-round destination takes a big leap forward with the opening of its mountain biking operations on Friday, June 7.

Beginning June 7-9, and continuing every Fri-Sun through September, the resort will offer lift access to its trail system, and to the town's Emerald Outback trail system.

The ski chairlifts have been retro-fitted with special trays to carry bikes, with riders following behind in a standard seat.

Additionally, Beech Mountain Resort will have bike rentals available at the new Magic Cycles shop inside Ski Beech Sports.

Furthermore, the resort will open its new 18-hole disc golf course. This one-of-a-kind course is designed and built by Pat Farrell of Disconcepts, and Innova discs will be available for purchase in Ski Beech Sports.

The summer's best weekend will be the BMR bike park's official grand opening - July 19-21. This will coincide with the third annual Bikes, Brews 'n' Views beer festival. The festival features dual slalom races at the resort, downhill races at the resort, live bands each night and plenty of opportunities to ride both trail systems.

Now it's time for folks across the Southeast to come enjoy the best mountain biking around!

For more info and details about the grand opening, visit Beech Mountain Resort's Website.

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Emerald Outback Trail Park Takes Outdoor Adventure to New Heights

Experience the Emerald Outback at Beech Mountain - the highest adventure trail park in Eastern America.

At 5,400 feet in North Carolina's Blue Ridge, the Emerald Outback consists of over 8 miles of intermediate to advanced trails.

The system includes single-track and double-track trails, gravel logging trails, and fire roads. It's an ideal place for mountain bikers, hikers and trail runners.

The setting is unlike that of any other trail park in the Southeast.

Wind-swept gnarly Beech trees, lush undergrowth and small streams form an emerald forest that inspired creation of the Land of Oz theme park, which operated nearby from 1970-80.

And, did we mention 100-mile vistas from scenic overlooks?

The Emerald Outback was built by the Town of Beech Mountain. It's free and open to the public seven days a week, with the trail head in the center of this resort town. A details map, trail descriptions and more are available at www.EmeraldOutback.com.

Discount mountain biking packages and hiking packages are available! Call 800-468-5506 for details.