Flying Squirrel Ten Miler

The Flying Squirrel Ten Miler begins a few blocks from downtown Asheville, North Carolina, directing runners toward Town Mountain rather than a flat city loop. This 10-mile road race, presented by Jus’ Running, takes place on a June morning, with registration opening in early January. The start line is on Orange Street before the NC DOT building, and chip timing is provided. This is a small, serious Asheville race, now in its third edition. The organizers also manage the long-running Asheville Turkey Trot and Shut-In Ridge Trail Run. The course follows a hilly lollipop design: approximately three-quarters of a mile flat at the start, five miles primarily uphill, five miles primarily downhill, and a final flat section near the finish. Runners gain and lose over 1,400 feet throughout the 10 miles, featuring mostly gradual climbs with some short, steep sections. Around 85 percent of the route is paved, with the middle miles utilizing gravel on Patton Mountain Road. Sunset Drive is another named segment of the Town Mountain route. The race benefits the Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy, provides every participant with a custom shirt designed by Asheville artist Andrew Herbst and printed locally by Image 420, and offers substantial post-race food.