The Jump Off Rock Half Marathon and 10k returns for its 6th annual edition on Saturday, May 9, 2026. This event is recognized as one of the most scenic half marathons in the Southeast, featuring a fast, USATF-certified downhill course that begins at the iconic Jump Off Rock overlook. Participants wind through the floral spring landscapes of Laurel Park before finishing in the heart of historic downtown Hendersonville. The 10k offers a flatter alternative, starting at the Hendersonville Family YMCA and merging with the half marathon route for a shared festive finish on Main Street. The event also serves as the second leg of the Appalachian Trilogy race series.
| Race Category | Distance | Start Time | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Half Marathon | 21.1 km | 07:30 AM | Point-to-point downhill course |
| 10k Run | 10 km | 08:30 AM | Flat route / Cash prizes |
| Virtual Event | 10k / Half | Flexible | Mailed shirt & medal |
Hendersonville is the county seat of Henderson County, North Carolina, located in the Blue Ridge Mountains with a population of approximately 15,300 residents. The city's demographic profile is roughly 73.4% White (Non-Hispanic), 10.2% Hispanic or Latino, 3.8% Black or African American, and 1.1% Asian. The median household income in Hendersonville is approximately $52,000 USD. Geographically, the area is defined by the high-elevation overlook at Jump Off Rock, which sits at approximately 3,100 feet. The race route transitions from this mountainous terrain into the urban parklands of Laurel Park and finally into the historic brick-paved streets of the downtown district, providing a significant 1,200-foot net elevation drop for half marathon runners.
Participants registered by April 12 receive a complimentary dri-fit event shirt, while all finishers are awarded a custom commemorative medal. The 10k race offers cash prizes of up to $100 for the top three overall male and female winners. The event partners with several local charities, including the Blue Ridge Humane Society and the YMCA of WNC, with fundraising goals currently in progress. Runners can enjoy post-race festivities featuring live music and a complimentary beer at the finish line. For technical race details or shuttle schedules, participants can contact the iDaph Support Team at 828.684.0812 or visit the official race website via Race Roster.
May 09, 2026
Distance — 10km
Type — Running
07:30
$61.13
May 09, 2026
Distance — 21km
Type — Running
07:30
$98.75
May 09, 2026
Distance — 10km
Type — Running
07:30
$55.75
May 09, 2026
Distance — 21km
Type — Running
07:30
$82.63
These values represent the 3-year monthly averages for May in Hendersonville.
Learn more about the host city, Hendersonville.
Hendersonville is a small town just south of Asheville, North Carolina.
Read more launchWatch highlights and course previews from previous years.
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