Amicalola Falls Marathon

On race morning in December, temperatures typically hover around a mild range conducive to running outdoors without extreme weather conditions interfering. Participants can expect firm but slightly soft trail surfaces underfoot as they navigate through lush forests, alongside bubbling creeks, and past stunning overlooks of Amicalola Falls—the tallest cascading waterfall in Georgia. With generous time cutoffs allowing up to 8 hours for the marathon (or four and a half hours for the half marathon), runners can focus on enjoying the scenery rather than racing against the clock.
Established as an annual event, the Amicalola Falls Marathon has become a staple in North Georgia’s running calendar, drawing hundreds of participants each year. The race supports local causes through entry fees that contribute to community projects and initiatives within Dawsonville and its surrounding areas. Runners are rewarded with custom medals made from real metal—no wooden plaques here—and the opportunity for professional media coverage capturing their journey on camera. Over the years, this event has garnered a reputation not only for challenging terrain but also for fostering a sense of camaraderie among runners who appreciate nature and push themselves to achieve personal goals.
The Amicalola Falls State Park serves as both the starting point and finish line, with runners embarking from 418 Amicalola Falls State Park Rd in Dawsonville. The course features two loops for the full marathon and one loop for the half marathon, each including ascents of the iconic Appalachian Approach Trail steps that total 605 individual steps. Aid stations are well-placed throughout to offer runners food, hydration, and medical support as needed.
Registration can be completed online through the official race website at https://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=134607 with fees set at $120 for the half marathon and $135 for the full marathon. Participants must ensure they have their printed waiver signed before arriving on December 5th to pick up their bibs; package pickup is available from Saturday, December 6th starting at 7:30am inside the park itself.
Runners should plan to arrive early on race morning with proper attire suitable for cold mornings and mild afternoons typical of mid-December in Georgia. With a cut-off time set at four hours thirty minutes for the half marathon and eight hours for the full marathon, participants can expect a challenging yet rewarding experience that highlights some of North Georgia’s most scenic trails.
The Amicalola Falls Marathon in Dawsonville, Georgia on December 5th is an event not to be missed by trail runners seeking both breathtaking views and rigorous terrain. The combination of natural beauty, community support, and competitive spirit makes this marathon a standout race for the region.