Great Smoky Mountains Half Marathon
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Great Smoky Mountains Half Marathon & 5K : Townsend, TN
The event runs over a weekend in Townsend, Tennessee on August 28–29, 2026 and offers two race distances and related weekend options.
- 13.1 miles (Half Marathon)
- 5K
The half marathon is a point to point course along the edge of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, starting near Heritage High School and finishing at the Talley Ho Inn. The route is fully paved, includes multiple aid stations, and is described as uphill in sections. The 5K runs mostly along the Townsend Historical Trail, starts and finishes at the Talley Ho Inn, and is described as relatively flat with gentle rolling terrain.
A Black Bear Double option lets participants run the Friday evening 5K and the Saturday half marathon using the same bib and earn extra swag and an additional medal. Race services include an expo and bib pickup at The Parkman Hotel on the Friday before the races, parking and shuttle service to the start area from The Parkman Hotel, and managed course support.
The event follows a cup free policy at aid stations; runners are asked to bring a reusable bottle, cup, or hydration pack. The course is wheelchair and stroller accessible. Awards are offered by chip time for overall and masters categories with place medals and finisher medals provided. Race photos and live results are available through event partners. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
