Great Smoky Mountains Half Marathon
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Event Overview
The Great Smoky Mountains Half Marathon & 5K takes place in Townsend, Tennessee, near the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The event spans two days, with the 5K race on Friday evening and the half marathon on Saturday morning.
Distances
- Half Marathon: A point-to-point road race on August 29, 2026.
- 5K: A Friday evening road race on August 28, 2026.
- Black Bear Double: A combination of both races over the weekend.
Event Details
All activities are centered at the Talley Ho Inn in Townsend, TN. The race expo and bib pickup occur there on Friday, August 28. The 5K starts and finishes at this location. For the half marathon, shuttles transport runners from the Talley Ho Inn to the start line in the morning.
The half marathon course is on paved roads and walking paths shared with vehicle traffic. It has an elevation gain of 727 feet and a maximum elevation of 1,097 feet. The event is described as "open course," meaning runners share the road with cars. A time limit of 4 hours (approximately an 18-minute per mile pace) is enforced. Aid stations on the course provide water, an electrolyte drink, gels, and fruit, but the event is cup-free, requiring runners to bring their own hydration system.
The 5K course utilizes the Townsend Historical Trail.
Additional Information
Participants can register for a "charity bib" where fundraising can waive the registration fee. Volunteers can earn race credits. A free, custom training plan is offered for the event. Awards are given to top finishers overall, masters, and in various age groups. All finishers receive a medal. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
