Great Smoky Mountains Half Marathon & 5K

Every year, runners from across the country travel to East Tennessee for one of the most scenic races in the Southeast — the Great Smoky Mountains Half Marathon & 5K. Hosted on the peaceful side of the Smokies in Townsend, this destination race blends breathtaking mountain scenery with an unforgettable running experience just minutes from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Whether you're chasing a new personal best or simply want to enjoy a beautiful run through the foothills of the Smokies, this event delivers an incredible atmosphere for runners of all skill levels.

Event Dates

Late August 2026 (typically the final weekend of August)

• Friday evening: 5K race

• Saturday morning: Half Marathon (13.1 miles)

The half marathon typically begins early in the morning, giving runners cool temperatures and stunning sunrise views across the Smoky Mountains landscape.

Event Location

Townsend, Tennessee — often called the Peaceful Side of the Smokies

Townsend is known for its slower pace, beautiful rivers, and direct access to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It provides the perfect backdrop for a destination race where runners can enjoy nature, mountain scenery, and a welcoming small-town atmosphere.

About the Race

The Great Smoky Mountains Half Marathon & 5K is part of the nationally recognized Vacation Races series, which hosts destination races near some of America’s most beautiful national parks.

Runners will experience:

• Scenic views of the Smoky Mountains countryside

• A gradual uphill course with rolling elevation changes

• A well-organized race atmosphere with enthusiastic volunteers

• A welcoming event for runners and walkers alike

The half marathon features a 13.1-mile road course with roughly 700 feet of elevation gain, creating a manageable challenge while still showcasing the beauty of East Tennessee.

With scenic roads, mountain air, and views of wooded valleys and rivers, many participants say this race is just as much about the experience as it is about the finish time.

Race Options

Participants can choose from several race formats during the event weekend:

• Half Marathon (13.1 miles)

• 5K race

• Double race challenges for runners looking to complete multiple distances

The event is designed for all levels of runners, from first-time participants to experienced athletes looking for a memorable destination race.

Why Runners Love This Event

The Great Smoky Mountains Half Marathon is widely known for its beautiful scenery and welcoming race environment.

Highlights include:

• Incredible Smoky Mountain views throughout the course

• A friendly race atmosphere with runners from across the country

• A manageable course difficulty suitable for both beginners and seasoned runners

• A finish line celebration in Townsend surrounded by mountain scenery

For many runners, this race becomes an annual tradition and a great reason to return to the Smokies each year.

Make It a Smoky Mountain Getaway

If you're traveling for the race, turn the weekend into a full Smoky Mountain vacation.

Staying in a cabin allows you to relax before race day, recover comfortably afterward, and enjoy everything the area has to offer — from hiking trails and waterfalls to mountain attractions and scenic drives.

When you stay with Bear Tracts Vacation Cabins, you’ll enjoy spacious mountain cabins just a short drive from Townsend, Pigeon Forge, and Gatlinburg.

Even better, guests receive up to $1072 in free attraction tickets every single day of their stay, giving you the chance to experience some of the area's most popular activities while visiting the Smoky Mountains.

It’s the perfect way to combine an unforgettable race with an equally unforgettable mountain getaway.