If you are looking for a tough but short trail race, the Bearwallow Beast 5K might be just the ticket. The race is set for 2 p.m. Sunday, May 6, in Henderson County at Bearwallow Mountain. This race will ascend from the community of Gerton in the Upper Hickory Nut Gorge and finish atop to the scenic grassy summit.  All proceeds benefit Carolina Mountain Land Conservancy, a group that protects local land and water resources in Henderson and Transylvania counties.

The trail race ranks among the most difficult of any footrace in the southeast, gaining more than 1,300 feet of elevation over its course of 3.1 miles. Those who persevere to the finish line can enjoy a celebratory cup of beer at a mountaintop festival.

The Honey & Hops Festival will feature food, beer, honey vendors and bluegrass music by the Brushfire Stankgrass band at the mountain’s summit.  Runners may pre-register for the race online for $25; admittance to the festival is free for everyone.

www.bearwallowbeast.com or 828.697.5777.