Geyser Growl Half Marathon
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Event overview
The Geyser Growl Half Marathon, presented by Hillman Beer, is a road half marathon held in western North Carolina. The race starts at Lake Tomahawk Park in Black Mountain and finishes in Old Fort at Hillman Beer’s Old Fort location. The event is limited to 500 participants. Entry fees for 2025 were tiered: $70 (Jan 1–Mar 31), $80 (Apr 1–Aug 31), and $90 (Sep 1–race day). The organizers have set the 2026 race date as October 17, 2026.
Course and logistics
- Distance: Half marathon (13.1 miles)
The course is USATF certified (Certification No. NC22020BDS). The route leaves Lake Tomahawk Park, passes around Black Mountain, climbs Old US 70 to the Ridgecrest Conference Center crest, then descends on a mix of dirt and paved road, passes Andrews Geyser, and finishes in Old Fort.
There are six aid stations spaced at about two-mile intervals with water at each station and Gatorade and cookies at some stations. The race uses chip timing. A bag drop is available near the start line and post-race snacks include water, Gatorade and hot soup; runners over 21 may exchange their bib ticket for one Hillman beer.
Logistics include packet pickup at locations in Black Mountain and at Lake Tomahawk Park, ticketed shuttle service between Old Fort and Black Mountain for a fee, two parking options (park in Black Mountain or Old Fort), and a no refund/no deferral policy. Transfers were allowed through the registration platform by a stated deadline. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
