The AVL Runway 5K returns to Arden, North Carolina on October 3rd, 2026. This unique race offers runners the chance to experience a fast and flat course directly on the airfield at Asheville Regional Airport. Participants will run beside Taxiway Bravo, near the airport’s new air traffic control tower, with opportunities to wave to passing aircraft as they take off and land. Race morning finds Arden in autumn's embrace; temperatures hover around 13.8°C, feeling much like a brisk fall day with occasional breezes of about 9.4 km/h. Humidity is moderate at 71.8%, making the air feel refreshingly crisp for early October. There’s a slight chance of light rain (1 mm), but most likely you'll enjoy sunny skies and plenty of sunshine, with up to nine hours and forty-five minutes. The race course offers both seasoned runners and aviation enthusiasts an unforgettable experience. You’ll run through firm yet slightly soft conditions under the watchful eye of moderate UV rays. With views that change as aircraft take off and land nearby, this event is not just a 5K but also a journey in perspective and community support.
5K With Premium Long Sleeve Shirt 5K • Start: 10:00:00 • Fee: $55.49
5K With Short Sleeve Shirt 5K • Start: 10:00:00 • Fee: $39.44
The race offers both a 5K with a premium long sleeve shirt for $55.49 or a short sleeve shirt for $39.44. Registration can be done at https://raceroster.com/events/2026/130717/avl-runway-5k, and you must register by September 28th to avoid any additional fees. Bib pickup will take place on October 2nd from 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM at Arden Community Center; bring a form of ID. The race starts at the Arden Town Hall, located at 123 Main Street, Arden, NC 28704. Participants must be at least 16 years old and should arrive with their bibs, timing chip (if applicable), and any other necessary items for a smooth experience. This race is worth attending because it supports aviation education initiatives and local nonprofit organizations in Western North Carolina, fostering community growth through shared experiences and support of local causes.
Races Offered
5K With Premium Long Sleeve Shirt
Oct 03, 2026
straighten
Distance —
5K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
10:00
sell
$55.49
5K With Short Sleeve Shirt
Oct 03, 2026
straighten
Distance —
5K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
10:00
sell
$39.44
Weather History
These values represent the 3-year monthly averages for October in Arden.
thermostatTemperature
7.8° / 19.9°
wb_sunnyFeels like
5.4° / 17.4°
light_mode
Avg sunshine hours
9h 45m
water_drop
Avg rainfall
1.0 mm
ac_unit
Avg snowfall
—
air
Avg wind speed
9.4 km/h (Light breeze)
opacity
Sweat loss rate
Low
terrain
Course conditions
Firm and slightly soft
sunny
Max UV Index
Moderate (4.0)
humidity_mid
Humidity
71.8%
wb_twilight
Sunrise
07:37
nightlight
Sunset
18:53
About Arden
Learn more about the host city, Arden.
Arden is an unincorporated community located in southern Buncombe County, North Carolina, United States. Arden is considered to be approximately the area between Skyland and Fletcher near the Henderson County line. Arden's ZIP code is 28704. Its post office serves Royal Pines and Avery Creek census designated places to the east and the area to the west of the post office. Arden is part of the Asheville Metropolitan Statistical Area.
