Great Smoky Mountains Race Day Guide

Welcome to the

Smokies!

We hope your visit to Townsend is a memorable one — and that you make the time to explore Great Smoky Mountains National Park, America's most-visited national park, right on our doorstep. We try to capture the essence of visiting a national park on foot, and we want you to have fun while you're here. Please respect and follow the guidelines of our race, the National Park Service, and other local authorities.

“The clearest way into the Universe is through a forest wilderness.”
— John Muir

The Smokies breathe in color — rich green forest, cool mist, and hazy ridgelines fading into blue as they climb. Running through this world feels instinctive, almost meditative: the road winds gently, mountains appear and disappear in layered silhouettes, and the experience feels calm and immersive. Every visitor is a steward with a responsibility to protect and respect the area for future generations. As a participant, we trust in your support to promote the ecology and sustainability of this unparalleled location. Happy exploring! – The Vacation Races Team

Note to runners: All of the following information is subject to change. If changes occur due to unforeseen circumstances, adjustments will be made to satisfy local permitting requirements while still delivering a top-tier running experience. We will inform runners of any changes as soon as they are finalized so participants can comfortably prepare for their Vacation Races experience.

Race weekend

Schedule

12:00 PM

RACE EXPO & BIB PICKUP OPEN

*We cannot accommodate runners before 12:00 PM BYOB: Our expo is bag-free, so don’t forget to Bring Your Own Bag!

5:00 PM

RACE EXPO CLOSES

5K and Black Bear Double runners must pick up by 5:00 PM

5:30 PM

ALL 5K RUNNERS MUST BE PARKED

5:40 PM

5K RUNNERS WALK TO START LINE

5:50 PM

5K RUNNERS LINE UP AT START

6:00 PM

5K RACE STARTS

6:00 PM

BIB PICKUP CLOSES

7:00 PM

5K AWARDS CEREMONY

Pre-race

Expo

The race expo and bib pickup are held at The Parkman Hotel, 8314 TN-73, Townsend, TN 37882 — the same location as the 5K and half marathon finish lines. Our expo is bag-free, so don't forget to Bring Your Own Bag (reusable bags are also for sale at the merch tent). Bring a photo ID to pick up your bib.

Google Maps Apple Maps

The Parkman Hotel ↗

Race Expo

12:00 PM – 5:00 PM

Bib Pickup

12:00 PM – 6:00 PM

Bring

Photo ID

Good to know

✦
All 5K and Black Bear Double runners must pick up their bib by 5:00 PM on Friday.
✦
This is a cup-free event — bring a reusable bottle, hydration pack, or reusable cup.
✦
Our expo is bag-free — don't forget to Bring Your Own Bag (BYOB)!

Bib Pickup Options

→ At the expo (recommended) — Friday of race weekend at The Parkman Hotel → Race morning (please avoid) — Half Marathon only, at the start-line area → Shipped to your house — $30 fee, available as an add-on until 2 months before the event

What to Pack

You'll be racing in a humid mountain climate, and temperatures can vary between the Friday evening 5K and the early Saturday morning races. Since this is a cup-free event, every runner must carry their own hydration. Required Hydration system (handheld bottle, hydration pack, or reusable/collapsible cup). Race bib, worn on the front of your body and clearly visible at all times Recommended Personal nutrition (gels, chews, etc.) Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen) Layers for changing temperatures before and after your race

Race Merchandise

The official race shirt is picked up at the expo on check-in; the finisher medal is awarded at the finish line. Exclusive race merch — hoodies, tees, water bottles, stickers, hats, and posters — will be available to browse and buy at the expo and near the finish. Leftover merch can be purchased online after the event.

Shop race merchandise ↗

Earn Race Credits

We're looking for fantastic volunteers to join the fun during race weekend! It's the perfect way for friends and family to get in on the action without running. Volunteer shifts are open for the expo and race days and come with sweet perks: up to $100 off a future Vacation Races event. Race credits vary by role, are transferable, and can even be combined.

On the Course

The course

Great Smoky 5K

5K Course

3.1

Miles

+107 ft

Elevation

Aid Station

6:00 PM

Friday Start

View full route ↗

12:00–5:00 PM

RACE EXPO & BIB PICKUP

Bib pickup closes at 6:00 PM

5:30 PM

ALL 5K RUNNERS MUST BE PARKED

5:50 PM

5K RUNNERS LINE UP AT START LINE

6:00 PM

5K RACE STARTS

7:00 PM

5K AWARDS CEREMONY

5K Course Details+

A 3.1-mile road race that runs mostly along the Townsend Historical Trail — relatively flat with gentle, rolling terrain. You'll enjoy views of the surrounding Smoky Mountains along a peaceful, tree-lined path that starts and finishes at The Parkman Hotel. A scenic, approachable route for runners of all levels, with about +107 ft of elevation change.

Bib Pickup & Parking+

The expo and 5K start line staging are in the same place, so pick up your bib beginning at 12:00 PM — 5K runners have until 5:00PM to collect their bib. There are two designated parking areas, all a short walk to the start and finish; volunteers will direct you, and lots fill in a set order. Please be parked by 5:30 PM. 5K and Black Bear Double runners must collect their bib at Friday's expo. The 5K starts at 6:00 PM sharp on Friday.

Wave Start+

We'll break runners into three starting waves in order to avoid major vehicle traffic congestion at an intersection in town; so, please be patient as it takes a little while to get everyone going. Fastest runners competing for overall awards start in the first wave; the slowest runners and walkers start in the last wave. Everyone else can seed themselves among the pack — just be courteous to the front runners. We stage everyone near the expo and then cross the highway together before the start.

Aid Station+

There will be one aid station on the course near mile 2, with water and electrolytes. THIS IS A CUPLESS RACE, SO RUNNERS MUST PURCHASE A REUSABLE CUP OR BRING THEIR OWN HYDRATION SYSTEMS. RUNNERS SHOULD NOT DRINK DIRECTLY FROM THE WATER JUGS AND MAY BE PENALIZED FOR DOING SO.

Awards+

Finisher medals for everyone who finishes. Stick around for the 5K awards ceremony Friday at 7:00 PM. Place medals go to the top 5 male, female, and non-binary runners overall, plus the top 5 Masters 40+ male and female. Overall and Masters awards are based off gun time. The top 5 in each age group also receive a place medal: 11 and younger, 12–14, 15–19, 20–24, 25–29, 30–34, 35–39, 40–44, 45–49, 50–54, 55–59, 60–64, 65–69, 70–74, 75 and older. Age groups are by chip time. We do not yet offer non-binary age-group awards.

Recovery Food+

At the finish line recovery area we will have snack bags (full of recovery snacks), bananas, and chocolate milk, as well as water and electrolytes. Please help yourself to one snack bag, chocolate milk, and banana per runner. Snacks are for runners only. No spectators, please.

Race Morning

Getting to the

Half Marathon Info

Half Marathon Course

13.1

Miles · Point-to-Point

+727 ft

Uphill Course

Aid Stations

4 hr

Time Limit

View full route ↗

Morning Schedule

4:30 AM

Parking opens & bib pickup begins

4:50 AM

First shuttle loads

6:00 AM

Last shuttle to start

6:45 AM

Line up & last gear check

6:50 AM

National anthem

7:00 AM

Half Marathon starts

9:45 AM

Awards ceremony

Parking

Parking & Shuttles

There is no parking at the start line. Half Marathon runners park in the designated lots near the finish at the Parkman Hotel in Townsend — parking opens at 4:30 AM. From there, walk to E Lamar Alexander Parkway to meet the shuttles to the start. To avoid congestion, arrive early; we'll have coffee and hot chocolate waiting at the start line.

Directions ↗

Runner Drop-Off — Heritage High School

Being dropped off? Head to Heritage High School, 3741 E Lamar Alexander Pkwy, Maryville, TN. Enter the parking area behind the school (best approached via Tuckaleechee Pike) and use the designated drop-off area — quick unloading only, not parking. Drop your runner and exit promptly to keep traffic flowing.

Directions ↗

Course Details+

The Great Smoky Mountains Half Marathon is a beautiful point-to-point course along the edge of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, starting near Heritage High School and finishing at The Parkman Hotel in Townsend, TN. Please note: this is an open course, so you'll be sharing the road with local traffic at times, especially on narrow stretches and during busier morning hours. Stay alert, keep to the right when running with traffic, and be courteous to drivers, volunteers, fellow runners, and park visitors. Stepping into active traffic is grounds for disqualification. The course will be well marked and supported — your safety is our top priority!

Elevation+

This is a gradual uphill course that gains 727 feet over 13.1 miles, with the high point near mile 11. While the profile may look intimidating on paper, the gradual grades, scenic route, and beautiful Smoky Mountain surroundings help ease the burn. Save some legs for the steady climb, then enjoy the ridgeline views the whole way in.

Wave Start+

A wave start will help us organize the race and prevent overcrowding on the course. When you line up to start the race, please place yourself among the wave signs at the start based on your projected pace/finish time. If you’d like to run with companions in a different wave, please plan to line up with the slower wave group to help avoid congestion on the course.

Aid Stations+

We'll have aid stations near miles 3, 5, 7, 9, and 11. All aid stations have bathrooms, water + electrolytes, and Honey Stinger energy gels. Miles 5 and 7 will also have oranges and bananas. There will be basic first aid at each aid station, and the EMT will be stationed at mile 9. It can be humid in the Southern Appalachians — hydrate well! THIS IS A CUPLESS RACE, SO RUNNERS MUST PURCHASE A REUSABLE CUP OR BRING THEIR OWN HYDRATION SYSTEMS. RUNNERS SHOULD NOT DRINK DIRECTLY FROM THE WATER JUGS AND MAY BE PENALIZED FOR DOING SO.

Shuttles+

Shuttles run from the designated parking lots to the start line between 4:50 AM and 6:00 AM. The first shuttle loads at 4:50 AM and the last heads to the start at 6:00 AM. Please note: there are no shuttles back after the race — the finish is in Townsend near where you parked.

Timing+

Overall Male, Female, Non-Binary and Masters awards are based on chip time, but competitors must begin in the first wave within 15 minutes of the gun. Any athlete crossing the start line after the first wave will be considered for age-group awards only. Your chip time doesn't officially start until you cross the line, so please give each other space at the start.

Gear Check+

Gear check is available at the start line — the last call for gear check is at 6:45 AM. Fill a gear-check bag with anything you'd like transported to the finish; write your name and bib number on it. Avoid putting valuables or car keys in your bag. Bags will be available for pickup near the finish line.

Pacers+

Pacers will run in 10-minute intervals from a 1:40 pace up to 2:30, plus 2:45, 3:00, and 3:30 pacers. Seed yourself near the time you expect to finish and follow your pacer's sign.

Time Limit+

The half marathon has a 4-hour time limit, which equals about 18 minutes per mile. Walkers are welcome and should keep this pace in mind to finish on time. We ask for understanding and immediate cooperation if we deem it unsafe and need to pull a runner from the course.

Recovery Food+

Strollers, Wheelchairs & Dogs+

The course is fully paved and is wheelchair and stroller accessible — just be mindful of other participants and stay to the right when possible. Dogs are not allowed on course, as our insurance does not cover them, but they're welcome to cheer you on from the finish line with the rest of your crew.

For

Spectators

We welcome spectators to the Great Smoky Mountains Half Marathon! Because much of the course is open to local traffic, spectators are asked to cheer from the start and the finish line rather than along the highway.

Watch & Cheer — spectators are welcome to watch the start and gather at the finish line to cheer runners across.

Finish line only — park in an official event lot and meet your runner at the finish. Please do not stand or park along the highway.

Off the course — to reduce vehicle traffic, spectators are discouraged from driving or stopping along the race route to cheer.

Park ahead — only park in designated areas. This keeps us compliant with local guidelines and helps us keep putting on this race.

Runners only — the runner recovery area and its food and recovery supplies are for runners only, and the medical tent is for athletes only. Family members are not allowed inside.

Post Race

Post-race

Information

Cross the line, grab your victory snacks, and collect your finisher medal — awarded to everyone who finishes. Stick around the awards ceremony starting at 9:45 AM. Course-record holders receive a free race entry every year their record stands!

Free race entry while the record stands

Course Records

Overall Male·2019

Glen Burkhardt1:09:11

Overall Female·2021

Cassidy Heaton1:21:37

Overall Non-Binary·2024

Marcus Carmicle1:52:52

Masters Male·2021

Orinthal Striggles1:19:54

Masters Female·2019

Shanda Warren1:31:21

Masters Non-Binary·

Record openN/A

Awards & Age Divisions+

Place medals will be given to the top 5 male, female, and non-binary runners overall as well as the Masters 40+ male and female groups. These overall awards will be based on GUN TIME. Place medals will also be given to the top 3 teams with 6 or more qualifying participants. Additionally, the top 5 in each of the following age groups will also receive a place medal: 11 and younger, 12-14, 15-19, 20-24, 25-29, 30-34, 35-39, 40-44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69, 70-74, 75 and older. Age group awards will be based on chip time. As of yet, we do not offer non-binary age group awards. There will be finisher medals for everyone who finishes the race. Please note that we cannot give place medals before the awards ceremony. If you need to leave before the awards ceremony, we can mail you your award after the event for a shipping fee.

Race Swag & Shirt Exchange+

The official race shirt is picked up at the expo on check-in, and the finisher medal is awarded at the finish. Exclusive merch is available at the expo and near the finish. If your shirt doesn't fit, we'll have a shirt exchange at the finish line — sizes and quantities may be limited.

Race Photos+

New for 2026, FinisherPix will capture your race memories at each event. Your photos will be available 24–48 hours post-event; a download link is emailed to you when they're ready. Buy a photo pack ahead of race day during registration or directly through FinisherPix. Keep your bib visible on the front of your body so we can identify you.5K Photos Half Marathon Photos

Live Tracking & Results+

Live tracking is powered by Laurel's system, so friends and family can follow your race in real time — no phone or watch needed. Laurel estimates your position between checkpoints from pacing data for accurate updates and predicted finish times. Results are hosted online and are not official until all runners have finished and the event director has reviewed them. Questions about your placement? Email timing@brooksee.com.Tracking Results

Personalize Your Medal +

Our partner, Make It Personal, provides custom-engraved plates with your name and finishing time that clips onto your medal ribbon. You can pre-order before race day; they will be sent to you automatically after your finish. If you missed out, you can still order one later. They cost just $15, including shipping, and can be ordered below.Order iTab

Zero Waste+

We're committed to keeping our events sustainable and minimizing our impact on the environment. Here's how you can help us protect the wild places that host our races. Cup-Free Racing: single-use plastic is a huge source of waste, so our races are cup-free. Coolers of water and electrolyte drink are at every aid station and the finish, but cups are not provided. To stay hydrated, bring a reusable water bottle, a reusable collapsible cup (request one when you register), or a refillable hydration pack. Sort Your Waste: you'll see three containers at our events — please sort disposable items into the right one. Green Lid = compostables (banana and orange peels, uneaten food, other organic items). Blue Lid = recyclables (#1–7 plastics, aluminum and steel cans, paper, cardboard, glass — empty containers first). Black Lid = everything else (food wrappers, used gel packets, styrofoam, non-recyclable waste). Leave No Trace: please do not drop trash or personal items along the course except at designated aid-station bins. Anything else found on course will not be brought to the finish. Help us keep the Smokies pristine — no littering.

Lost & Found +

Lost and found items will be held at the Merchandise Booth. If you have lost an item, please submit a request here. We will hold onto lost items and unclaimed gear check bags for one week only, so be sure to reach out as soon as possible. A bin for extra clothing will be available at the first aid station. Again, this is the only official clothing drop and any clothing left scattered along the course will be considered trash which may be discarded or donated. Unclaimed clothing from aid station 1 drop (near mile 3) will be donated immediately after the race.Fill out the Lost and Found Form

Go further · Challenge event

Challenge Events

Up for an extra challenge? Take on both races in one weekend and earn exclusive finisher swag.

The Black Bear Double

5K + Half Marathon · August 28 – 29, 2026

Run the 5K on Friday evening and the Half Marathon on Saturday morning — two races within the span of 24 hours. Finishers earn a special Black Bear Double medal plus extra swag. You'll use the same bib for both events.

16.2

Total Miles

Medals

Bib · Both Races

Includes

✦

One standard Great Smoky race shirt

✦

One special Black Bear Double swag item — hat, unisex tee, beach hoodie, or Nalgene bottle

✦

Two finisher medals — one for each race

✦

One special Black Bear Double medal

Bib Pickup+

Check in before the 5K and use this bib for both races. You'll pick up your bib, race shirt, and your chosen Black Bear Double swag item at the race expo on Friday between 12:00 PM and 5:00 PM. During registration you'll choose between a hat, unisex t-shirt, beach hoodie, or Nalgene bottle.

Medals+

You'll receive a finisher medal for each race, plus your special Black Bear Double medal after you complete both. The Double medal will be waiting just outside the runner recovery area — head to the clearly marked table with your bib and a volunteer will hand you the correct medal.

Swag+

Additional items can be purchased at the end of your second race, once all Double participants have received their requested swag item. All Black Bear Double participants receive one bib, used for both races — please keep track of it.

Beyond the race

Experiences

Official lodging partner · HotelPlanner

Book your weekend stay

You're officially in for Great Smoky race weekend — now lock in your home base. HotelPlanner is our official lodging partner, offering exclusive runner rates near the Expo, Start, and Finish, plus 24/7 support if plans change. Book early to snag the best rates and make the most of your time in Townsend, TN.

Book lodging ↗

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

America's most-visited national park is right on the doorstep. Some areas now require a paid parking tag — check nps.gov/grsm for trail conditions, planning info, and ranger updates before you go. Leave nothing but footprints.

Learn more ↗

Train with Runna

Personalized training for your next Vacation Races event. Download now and unlock two free weeks!

Use code VACATIONRUNNA

Learn more ↗

Cataract Falls

Know before you go

The race start and finish are in Townsend and do not require a park pass. If you plan to visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park, note that some areas require a parking tag — check nps.gov before you go.

Where to eat

Restaurants in Townsend

A few of the popular local food and drink spots in and around Townsend.

🍺

Peaceful Side Social

Townsend's go-to spot for a relaxed post-adventure hang — cold craft brews, great food, and a sunny patio with mountain views.

☕

Towns End Coffee Co.

A cozy mountain-town coffee stop that feels like a breath of fresh forest air — perfect before or after a morning out on the trails.

🏞️

Apple Valley Mountain Village & Cafe

Apple Valley Mountain Village is the perfect post-run stop to refuel with hearty sandwiches, cold drinks, and their famous fried apple pies while browsing outdoor shops and soaking in Townsend's laid-back mountain atmosphere.

Good to know

FAQs

If I can't pick up my bib on Friday, can I get it race morning?+

For the Half Marathon only. A bib-pickup area opens near the start line at 4:30 AM race morning, though we recommend picking up at the Friday expo. 5K and Black Bear Double runners must pick up their bib at the expo on Friday.

Is there parking at the start line?+

No. There is no parking at the start line. Half Marathon runners park in the designated lots near the finish (open 4:30 AM) and take the race shuttle to the start between 4:50 and 6:00 AM, or arrange a drop-off at Heritage High School. There are no shuttles back after the race.

Why is the race cup-free, and what should I bring?+

To cut single-use plastic waste, we don't provide cups on course or at the finish. Bring a reusable bottle, a collapsible reusable cup (request one at registration), or a hydration pack. Coolers of water and electrolyte drink are available at every aid station.

Are dogs, strollers, or wheelchairs allowed on course?+

The fully paved course is wheelchair and stroller accessible — just be mindful of others and stay to the right. We love dogs, but they aren't allowed on course; they're welcome to cheer you on from the finish line.

How do I compete for an overall or Masters award?+

Overall and Masters awards are based on gun time and you must start in the Blue wave within the first 15 minutes of the starting gun. Anyone crossing the start after the first wave will be considered for age-group awards only.

Can someone else pick up my race packet?+

Yes, as long as they have a photo of your ID.

If my race shirt doesn't fit, can I exchange it?+

Yes, but not until after the race. We pre-order shirts based on registration sizing, so to ensure everyone gets their requested size, exchanges happen post-race at the finish line — sizes and quantities may be limited.

Do I need a National Park pass to run?+

No — the race start and finish are in Townsend and do not require a park pass. If you plan to visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park before or after the race, check nps.gov, as some areas require a parking tag.

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