Geyser Growl Half Marathon
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Geyser Growl Half Marathon
The Geyser Growl is a USATF certified half marathon that starts at Lake Tomahawk Park in Black Mountain and finishes at Hillman Beer in Old Fort. The course runs around Black Mountain, follows Old US 70 to the crest at Ridgecrest Conference Center, then descends on a mix of dirt and paved road, passing the historic Andrews Geyser before entering Old Fort.
The event is limited to 500 participants. Registration for the 2026 race opens on January 1 and closes on October 15 or when the field sells out. Entry fees are tiered by date: January 1 to March 31 $70, April 1 to August 31 $80, and September 1 through race day $90; listed fees do not include registration platform service charges and taxes.
There are six aid stations placed approximately every two miles with a mix of water, Gatorade, and cookies. Chip timing is used and the timing chip is on the back of the race bib, which should be worn on the front and visible during the race. A bag drop is available near the start and packet pickup is offered the day before and the morning of the event at the Lake Tomahawk Park Pavilion.
Post race provisions include snacks, water, Gatorade and hot soup. Runners over 21 may exchange the ticket on their bib for one Hillman beer. The race awards a commemorative finisher medal to each finisher and presents top overall, masters 40 and over, and age group awards. The event has a 3 hour 30 minute course time limit to receive full police protection and aid station support. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
