Set on the “Peaceful Side of the Smokies,” the weekend pairs a community-friendly 5K on Friday (6:00 pm) with a scenic, point-to-point Half Marathon on Saturday (7:00 am). The course uses paved road and the historical walking path, is shuttle-served, and is wheelchair and stroller accessible. Terrain is road/paths with typical Smokies rollers; the half lists about 727 ft (222 m) of gain. Go bigger with the Black Bear Double—run both races within 24 hours for extra swag and a third medal.
Race
Also hosted by Vacation Races, the Half Marathon takes place the following morning—Saturday, August 29, 2026, in Townsend, Tennessee—bringing runners on a beautifully scenic and gradual point-to-point course, again with start and finish at the Talley Ho Inn.
Weather based on historical averages.
FAQs
What is the Great Smoky Mountains Half Marathon?
How long is the Great Smoky Mountains Half Marathon?
Where does the Great Smoky Mountains Half Marathon take place?
What is the elevation gain of the Great Smoky Mountains Half Marathon?
How can I prepare for the Great Smoky Mountains Half Marathon?
How do I choose the right training plan for the Great Smoky Mountains Half Marathon?
Also hosted by Vacation Races, the Half Marathon takes place the following morning—Saturday, August 29, 2026, in Townsend, Tennessee—bringing runners on a beautifully scenic and gradual point-to-point course, again with start and finish at the Talley Ho Inn.
The Great Smoky Mountains Half Marathon is 21km long.
The Great Smoky Mountains Half Marathon takes place in Townsend, TN, USA.
The Great Smoky Mountains Half Marathon elevation gain is 222 metres, which Runna classifies as a Moderate race.
The best way to train for the next race is to use a personalised training plan that takes into account your current running ability, schedule, and preferences.
This will help you steadily improve your running performance and get ready for the race without risking an injury.
Check out our training plans to find the best running program for your goals!
Which plan you choose will depend on your experience, schedule, objectives, and the date of the race.
Runna offers personalised training plans for every runner and every goal: Whether this is your first, 10th or 100th race, we'll help you get the most out of your training and smash your goals.
Check out our training plans to find the best running program for your goals!
What is the Great Smoky Mountains Half Marathon?
Also hosted by Vacation Races, the Half Marathon takes place the following morning—Saturday, August 29, 2026, in Townsend, Tennessee—bringing runners on a beautifully scenic and gradual point-to-point course, again with start and finish at the Talley Ho Inn.
How long is the Great Smoky Mountains Half Marathon?
The Great Smoky Mountains Half Marathon is 21km long.
Where does the Great Smoky Mountains Half Marathon take place?
The Great Smoky Mountains Half Marathon takes place in Townsend, TN, USA.
What is the elevation gain of the Great Smoky Mountains Half Marathon?
The Great Smoky Mountains Half Marathon elevation gain is 222 metres, which Runna classifies as a Moderate race.
How can I prepare for the Great Smoky Mountains Half Marathon?
The best way to train for the next race is to use a personalised training plan that takes into account your current running ability, schedule, and preferences.
This will help you steadily improve your running performance and get ready for the race without risking an injury.
Check out our training plans to find the best running program for your goals!
How do I choose the right training plan for the Great Smoky Mountains Half Marathon?
Which plan you choose will depend on your experience, schedule, objectives, and the date of the race.
Runna offers personalised training plans for every runner and every goal: Whether this is your first, 10th or 100th race, we'll help you get the most out of your training and smash your goals.
Check out our training plans to find the best running program for your goals!
This event listing is for informational purposes only. Runna is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by Great Smoky Mountains Half & 5K 2026 or Vacation Races. All event details are based on publicly available information and are provided solely to help users discover running events. Runna does not use any official logos, images, or proprietary content from this event or its organiser. Any trademarks or names mentioned are used descriptively to identify the event in a factual manner. For the most accurate and up to date information (including to register or purchase an entry to the event), please visit the Great Smoky Mountains Half & 5K 2026 website.
