Helenback Race Series
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Helenback Race Series : Helen, GA
Helenback offers three trail events held near downtown Helen, Georgia. Distances:
- Marathon
- Half Marathon
- 4 Miler
All races start and finish on the field adjoining the Chattahoochee River. The marathon and half marathon use trails in and around Unicoi State Park and the Smith Creek/Anna Ruby Falls area. The first part of each course climbs about 400 feet on a gravel service road into Unicoi State Park and then follows the park trail system and the Lake Trail.
Course, logistics and cutoffs
Aid stations are provided along the marathon and half marathon courses, with runners typically seeing aid every 4-6 miles; some aid stations are limited in supplies. There are strict cutoff points on the marathon and half marathon. Marathon cutoffs include passing Anna Ruby Falls by the stated cutoff, a cutoff at mile 9.6, Tray Mountain at mile 15, and Bear Trap at mile 21.9. Half marathon cutoffs include Bear Trap and the Field aid station. The marathon has a 7 hour time limit; the half marathon has a 4.5 hour time limit.
Parking is available for about 150 cars at the start/finish field; overflow parking is across the river with about a 0.25 mile walk back. Packet pickup is available Friday afternoon and on race morning. Unicoi State Park is listed as the preferred lodging partner. Awards are given for overall and masters placements. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
