Geyser Growl Half Marathon
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Event overview
The Geyser Growl is a Half Marathon (13.1 miles) held on October 17, 2026. The event is limited to 500 participants and is the fifth running of this race. The race uses chip timing and each finisher receives a commemorative medal. Special awards are presented to top overall and Masters (40 and over) finishers, and age-group awards are given to male and female finishers in multiple age brackets.
Course and support
The course starts at Lake Tomahawk Park and initially loops around Black Mountain for about two miles before climbing Old US 70 to the crest near Ridgecrest Conference Center. Runners then descend on a mix of dirt and paved road, pass Andrews Geyser, and finish in Old Fort at Hillman Beer Old Fort. The course is USATF certified (Certification No. NC22020BDS). There are six aid stations spaced at roughly two-mile intervals with water at all stations; several also offer Gatorade and some offer cookies.
Logistics and services
Packet pickup and late registration occur the day before and the morning of the race at Lake Tomahawk Park Pavilion. A bag drop is provided near the start line. Shuttle service between Old Fort and the start is ticketed; shuttle rides are offered for a fee and have limited capacity. Post-race provisions include snacks, water, Gatorade and hot soup, and runners over 21 may exchange the ticket on their bib for one Hillman beer. Entry fees vary by registration period. Transfers between participants are allowed for a processing fee; the event has a no-refund, no-deferral policy. Dogs are not permitted unless accompanied by a veterinarian letter confirming the dog can run 13.1 miles. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
