Take Your Shot

The Appalachian Bowhunter Challenge is a two-day competition designed to push bowhunters beyond backyard practice. Contestants complete a timed hike with weighted packs, compete in head-to-head brackets, and shoot a conventional 3D course. Prizes are awarded to the top three in each age division for every event and for the overall title. Join us on May 1 and 2, 2026 at Winterplace Ski Resort in Ghent, West Virginia to see if you’ve got what it takes to stand on the podium.

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Our Mountain Archery Event

A unique blend of challenges designed to test your strength, nerve, and skill 

  • Blue mountain silhouette with clouds on a blue background.

    Mountain Challenge 5K Course:

    Navigate steep climbs and sketchy descents

  • Icon depicting communication between two people with arrows.

    Head-to-Head Challenge:

    Can you make the shot when all eyes are on you?

  • Blue stick figure archer with bow and arrow.

    3D Course:

    Test your focus under pressure with real world shot scenarios

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Push Your Limits

This isn’t your average archery shoot—it’s a test of endurance, focus, and outdoor grit. Whether you’re a seasoned bowhunter or new to competition, the Appalachian Bowhunter Challenge offers a one-of-a-kind experience that brings out your best shot.

Sign Up for the Next Challenge

Ready to see what you’re made of? Register for the upcoming Appalachian Bowhunter Challenge and take on one of the toughest and most rewarding archery events in the region. Spots are limited, so don’t miss your shot to compete.

Join the Challenge
A man hiking through a forested trail wearing a backpack and cap.
Person hiking on a sunny forest trail with trekking poles.

Mountain Challenge 5K Course

Athletes start at the firing line with weighted packs. After firing two arrows, they take on the 5K course, climbing to the summit of Flat Top Mountain and completing physical challenges at two stations along the loop. The course returns athletes to the firing line for two final shots, followed by a short run to the finish. Time penalties are assessed based on accuracy. Bows remain at the firing line for the entire 5K loop.

Head to Head

For this portion of the event, two participants wearing weighted packs start back-to-back. On “go,” grab a 25lb sandbag and sprint 30 yards to the waiting sled. Drop it, sprint back, grab your bow, and shoot the first target. Repeat for targets two and three. For target four, drag the now-heavy sled to the line, shoot the final clay, then step out of the box to stop your time. Penalties will be added to your run time based on shooting accuracy. Lowest total time advances March Madness–style until we crown a winner. Your two fastest rounds count toward the overall score. 

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3D Course

This is a 3D shoot with real hunting challenges.  Athletes will shoot 15-20 targets, with time penalties based on shooting accuracy.  Expect kneeling shots, draw and move shots, and anything else we throw at you.        

Person with a camera in a green forest, capturing nature.
Arrow hitting the bullseye on a target.

We’re Always Within Range

Have questions about the course, rules, or registration? Our team is here to help you prepare for the ultimate mountain archery challenge. Reach out today—we’ll help you get on target.

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