South Mountains Marathons

Set against the backdrop of South Mountains State Park in North Carolina, Tanawha Adventures presents the South Mountains Marathons. This collection of trail races offers runners an unforgettable experience amidst stunning natural beauty and challenging terrain. While some trails are still off-limits due to park damage, this year's event showcases breathtaking new overlooks previously unseen by half marathon participants.
The centerpiece race is a 12.9-mile half marathon with approximately 2,600 feet of elevation gain. The course features roughly 12.4 miles of runnable trails and just under half a mile of pavement, punctuated by two joyous creek crossings that add an element of adventure to the journey. Runners can expect steep climbs where they might feel their head between their knees and descents that could leave quads feeling strained.
The race takes place in chilly weather conditions typical for late fall or early winter, making it essential for participants to dress appropriately. Despite its challenging nature, the course is highly runnable, offering a mix of technical trail running with scenic overlooks and sweeping vistas.
A single aid station provides full support along the route, allowing runners to focus on their surroundings rather than logistics. The mission behind this event extends beyond athletic competition; it aims to highlight South Mountains State Park's beauty while supporting conservation efforts through partnerships with organizations like the Foothills Conservancy, dedicated to preserving the area’s natural heritage.
Entry fees come with a flexible refund policy up until December 15th, offering participants peace of mind. However, once this deadline passes or if unforeseen circumstances necessitate shifting to virtual race formats on rescheduled dates, no refunds will be issued.
Join us for an immersive trail running experience in one of North Carolina's most pristine mountain ranges and become part of the community dedicated to protecting its natural splendor.