2026 Turtle Trot 5Ks

In the BHI Conservancy’s Turtle Trot 5K, participants can run fast or slow as they move through the island’s historic maritime forest and dunes.

All proceeds support the Bald Head Island Conservancy's mission of Discovering, Learning, Conserving and Preserving. Among the important Conservancy activities that the Trots support is our nationally-recognized Sea Turtle Protection Program.

Included with your registration is our BHIC themed Turtle Trot t-shirt. First place winners in each age group will receive a beautiful sea turtle medal! Please read our rules and regulations carefully before signing up.

Start time is precisely at 8:30 AM! The race will begin at the old lighthouse structure/circle in front of the Bald Head Island Conservancy campus.

Age Brackets (M & F)

• 10 and under
• 11-17
• 18-39
• 40+

Registration

• Online pre-race registrations only with 8:30 PM deadline the night before raceday

• NO registration day of race

Race-day Process

• Must check in 20-25 minutes before race

• Race pack with t-shirt and bib available at check-in table in front of Turtle Central

• Post-race winner ceremony: race winners receive sea turtle medals

Other Rules

• No beach route due to erosion and narrow beach around the shoals

• No dogs allowed

• Pay close attention to signs. Route maps available at check-in.

• If the event is cancelled on race-day due to inclement weather, no refunds will be provided, but participants will still receive their race packets
• Transportation to and from the island as well as while on the island is the responsibility of the racer. The start/finish line is approximately 3 miles from the Marina. Ferry trams, golf cart rentals, and bicycle rentals are availble.

If you have any questions, please email development@bhic.org.

Thank you to our 2026 Sponsors!