Geyser Growl Half Marathon
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Geyser Growl Half Marathon
The Geyser Growl is the fifth running of a half marathon that travels from Lake Tomahawk Park in Black Mountain to the Hillman Beer location in Old Fort, passing the historic Andrews Geyser. The event takes place during peak leaf season and uses a point to point course that includes both paved and dirt road sections.
The course leaves Lake Tomahawk Park, circles through the first two miles around Black Mountain, then follows Old US 70 to the crest at Ridgecrest Conference Center. From the crest the route descends toward Old Fort. Runners are asked to remain to the right side of the road except on the Old US 70 climb, where runners use the left side as directed. The course is USATF certified, certification number NC22020BDS.
Support includes six aid stations spaced at roughly two mile intervals with water, Gatorade, and cookies at various stations. Chip timing is used; the timing chip is attached to the race bib and the bib should be worn on the front and visible during the race. A bag drop is available near the start. Packet pickup is scheduled the day before and the morning of the race. Ticketed shuttle service is offered for travel between Old Fort and the start for a fee.
The race is limited to 500 participants. Entry fees vary by registration date tier. The event has a no refund no deferral policy; transfers are permitted for a processing fee and must be completed by the stated deadline.
Each finisher receives a commemorative medal. Awards are presented to top overall and masters finishers and to age group placers. After the race runners receive snacks, drinks and hot soup, and runners over 21 may exchange a bib ticket for one Hillman beer. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
