Highlands is a neat place. For those of you familiar with it, I hiked Yellow Mountain (via Shortoff and one other whose name escapes me) up to the fire tower, ate 2 sandwhiches I packed, took some pictures, and back down just under 4 hours (I was short on time and hustling). I was in much better shape then. I was planning on hiking Whiteside, but Yellow Mountain is higher, so I chose it.
Another time I was visiting, I took a dip in the Chatooga, just beneath the Old Train Bridge. It was October, and the water was frigid to say the least.
Great expensive shopping ( I love the bookstore, and The Stone Lantern) antiquing if you have time, or if you are taking any family with you. I also highly recomend Nicks or On the Veranda for some great food and wine.
Highlands is rich in history, from street names being named after its residents, whose children and grandchildren and great grand children still live there, to certain species of plants being found only in Highlands, and Japan, to the Trail of Tears, Smokey Mountains and more.
Apologies if I sound like the Tourism Board of Highlands.
Those of you who have not been before are in for a gem of a treat.
Good luck with the race all!
EDIT: I took the longer trail up and down Yellow Mountain.