Mountain Lakes 5k – Highlands, NC – May 1, 2010

RESULTS OF THE 2010 HIGHLAND LAKES 5K

If you’re looking for a mini-adventure and a race outside the immediate Asheville area, I’d suggest taking a look at this little gem in Highlands, NC. It’s May 1, 2010 at 10:00 AM.

Located only two hours from either Atlanta or Asheville, the Town of Highlands is a resort community that has long been an exclusive destination for those visiting the Southern Blue Ridge. The average elevation is 4118 feet, and the cool summers and unparalleled scenic beauty have attracted visitors since it was settled in the 1880’s. Many of the older churches, inns, and summer homes are listed on the National Register, and the quaint downtown business area features fine shops and gourmet restaurants. Quiet, tree-lined neighborhoods extend from Main Street up the slopes of nearby mountains and around the shores of jewel-like lakes.

I must admit I have not spent much time in Highlands. I’ve driven through a few times and stopped for lunch once, but I’m intrigued by the idea of driving out there for this race. The 10:00 AM start time makes it reasonable for runners to travel a bit to get there without having to hit the road at the crack of dawn. A little about the race …

The Highlands Roadrunners Club’s 11th Annual Mountain Lakes 5-K will be held on Saturday, May 1, 2010. Organized by and for runners, the race will use the same exciting course inaugurated several years ago – gently-rolling, mostly on pavement but partly on unpaved roads, winding past venerable moss-covered rock walls, laurel thickets, quiet homes, and two beautiful lakes.

I love the term “gently-rolling” used in this part of the United States, home of the tallest mountains east of the Mississippi River.

Here is a PDF of the Mountain Lakes 5k Entry Form