Gateway to the Smokies Ten-Miler
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Event Overview
The Gateway to the Smokies Ten-Miler and Mighty Four Miler is a running event on June 20, 2026, in Waynesville, North Carolina. The event starts and finishes on Commerce Street in the Frog Level area. This marks the sixth iteration, with a new course and venue introduced previously.
Distances
Two race distances are offered:
- Ten-Miler (10 miles)
- Mighty Four Miler (4 miles)
A virtual participation option is available for the Mighty Four Miler. The Mighty Four Miler benefits the Riley Howell Foundation Fund.
Course Details
Both courses begin on Commerce Street and proceed up Main Street. Runners pass under the Gateway to the Smokies arch and by the Riley Howell memorial tree, covering sections of Waynesville and Hazelwood.
For the Ten-Miler, aid stations are positioned at mile points 2.2, 4.3, 5.3, and 8.2. Participants have a 3-hour time limit to receive full course support.
For the Mighty Four Miler, one aid station is located at mile point 2.7.
Logistics
Packet pickup and late registration occur on Friday at Frog Level Brewing (56 Commerce Street) and on Saturday morning at Commerce Street.
Parking is available at the Haywood County Courthouse parking deck on Branner Avenue.
The event uses chip timing via race bibs.
Awards and Swag
All finishers receive a commemorative medal. Registrants by June 10 are guaranteed a race shirt.
Awards include special pottery pieces from Mud Dabbers Pottery for the top three overall male and female finishers, first place masters (40 and over), and age group winners.
Policies
Dogs are not allowed in the Ten-Miler. Leashed dogs are permitted in the Mighty Four Miler.
The organizer has a no refund and no deferral policy. Registration transfers to another person are permitted with a $2 processing fee. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
