3 walking events in Gilmer County, Georgia

Lace up, take off, and then raise a glass at the finish line! The Hops & Huffs 5K blends fast miles with fresh pours for the ultimate run-and-relax experience. Whether you’re chasing a personal best or cruising with friends, this event delivers a fun, high-energy atmosphere from start to last sip.

Hops & Huff 5K brings together a love of running and craft beer in the heart of North Georgia. Hosted by Cartecay River Brewing Company, this fun and festive 5K features a flat, fast course through Ellijay, making it an excellent option for runners and walkers of all experience levels.

All registered 5K participants will receive one complimentary pour at the brewery following the race (participants must be 21 years or older to redeem). It’s the perfect way to cool down, celebrate your finish, and soak in the community vibe with fellow runners.

For those bringing the speed, there’s plenty on the line. Awards will be presented to the Top 3 Male and Female Overall finishers, including Masters, Grand Masters, and Senior Masters divisions. Age group awards will also be given in the standard five-year increments from 10 & Under through 80+, ensuring competitive opportunities across all levels.

Run hard. Recover responsibly. Cheers to a great race day at Hops & Huff

Welcome to the 4th annual Hero Hill Climb! - Saturday, May 23rd, 2026 Memorial Weekend

This is a great event to honor our fallen veterans and bring awareness to the good men & women serving in our military of all branches.

Walk, run or mountain bike...all ages...

THE MISSION: Starting in front of Camp Merrill Army Ranger Base, you will be given a half-sheet card with the name of a fallen service member (Hero). Your mission is to carry your Hero up the gravel road to the top of the hill to honor their sacrifice. When you get to the top, there will be a large Hero board, an American flag, and a cast iron Freedom bell. You will pin your Hero Card onto the Hero Board, ring the bell in their honor, and we give you a 12-inch flag to return back down the gravel road with. The scenery is gorgeous, the camaraderie is inspirational, and you get to walk side by side with some amazing people! Each participant will also receive a special event Challenge Coin that you can pay forward or keep.

Afterwards, join the after-party at "The Overhang", Camp Merrill's on-base bar & grille for great food & beverages, raffle giveaways, and live music. Comfy event t-shirts and challenge coins are available on-site and online.

If you are unsure of your physical fitness to walk up the gravel road, no problem! We'll have UTV/SxS vehicles to transport you up and down the mountain, so you can complete your mission safely. We even have a "virtual category" for those who want to participate from home.

WHY DO WE DO THIS?

Your contribution raises money to deploy critical support to our Heroes, by fostering community, financial assistance, and long-term wellness programs to combat PTSD and prevent veteran suicide. It is a troubling fact that 22 Veterans a day take their own life. But we can all make a difference to support our Heroes. Partnering with the US Mountain Ranger Association (USMRA), the proceeds from this event will create resources for both Mission22 and the USMRA to provide the support needed. You make an impact!

Help us spread the word by sharing with your friends, participating in the event, and gathering a team. Our Heroes deserve our best!

** We also need sponsors and volunteers! If you have a business or an organization that we can promote, your sponsorship will be accepted as a 501(c)3 contribution. Let's find creative ways to benefit our heroes, and promote you at the same time. Please contact Stephen at the "Race Contact" below.

HERO HILL CLIMB VIDEO (click here)

PHOTOS GALLERY Link (credit to Justin Arndt at www.ourlocalheroes.com)