Events in Blount County, Tennessee | 2026-2027

Wesley Woods Trail Race [runsignup.com]
Sat, Feb 07, 2026 at 7:30 AM

Description

Wesley Woods Camp Trail race is ready for YOU this winter!

Come explore the trails of Camp Wesley Woods located in Townsend beneath the foothills

parkway with new distances for 2026 featuring new...

Wesley Woods Camp Trail race is ready for YOU this winter!

Come explore the trails of Camp Wesley Woods located in Townsend beneath the foothills

parkway with new distances for 2026 featuring new events to choose from: Kids mile, 3-6-9 & 12 mile trail runs and of course the popular 3mile trail hike!

Race will start on Camp's main gravel service road and will enter into the perimeter trail system consisting of double and some single track trail. Hilly terrain will be present!

This event will feature a 3mile course which will be run 1-2-3 & 4 times for 3-6-9 & 12 mile trail runners who want to behold all of Gods glory in nature while exploring some epic Townsend terrain.

For those who are not runners but still want to support the camp mission by participating in an adventure- the 3mile Hike option is JUST FOR YOU!

RACE EVENT START TIMES

7:30am - 9 & 12mile Race Start

7:40am - Kids 1mile Gravel Run Start

8:00am - 3 & 6mile Race Start

8:05am - 3mile Hike Start

Hiking and History Guide

Hike will be a single lap of the 3-mile course. For Hikers interested in hiking the trail, you may choose to hike at your own pace, or, with two local trail hiking experts in the area. Hiking guides will be introduced closer to race date.

COURSE DESCRIPTION

Both events will begin at in front of the Nickel lodge building on the gravel road heading northeast. Both events will follow the Gravel road before this merges into a narrower service road before bearing left onto Bob Hayes Trail- this trail will follow the properties perimeter (approx.

1.7mi- Counterclockwise) before returning to the main gravel road that bisects the camp. All participants will take the gravel road back to the Start/ Finish area to conclude the 3-mile course. There will be Water/ aid station set up on the course available at the Start/ Finish area. One 3mile loop merits approximately 500ft of elevation gain.

Giveaways

All registered runners will receive a special camp shirt giveaway for the year, cut off for orders will be January 22. All Proceeds for shirts and registration go to supporting the camps ministries throughout the year. Camp store will be open where previous Camp Wesley Woods T-shirts can be purchased.

AWARDS

Awards will be given to top Male & Female runners in each race event. No Age Groups will be awarded. Awards will be given to winners upon completing their respective race.

Not a runner/ hiker but still want to support Wesley Wood's mission?

Wesley Woods is a camp located in Townsend TN which is home to numerous camps throughout the year for various groups ranging from boy scouts, business retreats, recovery retreats, adult get-aways, as well as being a destination for church camps and others. This event will kick start a new year for an exciting year for the camp! Donations can be sent by selecting the DONATE option next to the registration option in the top Right corner on the page. All proceeds for this event will directly benefit Camp Wesley Woods.

1 Miles 3 Miles 6 Miles 9 Miles 12 Miles Run Trail
329 Wesley Woods Rd, Blount County, Tennessee, 37882, United States
OpenStreetMap Google Maps

Davy Crockett’s Heritage 5k [heritagehubsknoxville.org] [Register at runsignup.com]
Sat, Apr 11, 2026 at 10:00 AM

Description

"Like Davy Crockett conquering the peaks of the Smokies, you'll answer the call of the wild — and the call of your community."

Lace up your boots, channel your frontier spirit, and join us for a 5K...

"Like Davy Crockett conquering the peaks of the Smokies, you'll answer the call of the wild — and the call of your community."

Lace up your boots, channel your frontier spirit, and join us for a 5K that celebrates the untamed landscapes, storied history, and proud heritage of Knoxville and East Tennessee.

About the Race

The Conquer the Wild Heritage Hubs Knoxville 5K is more than a race — it's a celebration of who we are and where we come from. Inspired by the legendary frontiersman Davy Crockett — a son of Tennessee who embodied courage, grit, and an unbreakable connection to the land — this event invites runners of all levels to take on the trail and honor the spirit of our Appalachian heritage.

Whether you're a seasoned runner or hitting your first finish line, this 5K is your chance to step into history, breathe in the beauty of East Tennessee, and be part of something bigger than a race.

Why Your Race Entry Matters

Every step you take supports Heritage Hubs Knoxville's mission to bring historical and civics education to life — rooted right here in our local community. Proceeds from the Conquer the Wild 5K fund educational programs that connect Knoxville's residents — young and old — to the culture, history, and civic values that define our shared identity.

When you run, you're not just crossing a finish line. You're investing in the next generation's understanding of where they come from and why it matters.

What to Expect

Participants can look forward to a scenic, welcoming course set against the backdrop of East Tennessee's natural beauty. The event will feature a festive pre-race atmosphere, post-race community celebration, award ceremonies, and activities that bring our local history to life.

Come dressed to impress — frontier-inspired costumes and Tennessee pride are strongly encouraged. Whether you're channeling Davy Crockett himself or simply sporting your Tennessee colors, this is a race where community spirit and history meet the open trail.

About Heritage Hubs Knoxville

Heritage Hubs Knoxville is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing historical and civics education centered on the culture and heritage of our local community. Through events, programs, and partnerships, we work to connect Knoxville's residents to the rich history and civic traditions that make East Tennessee extraordinary.

5k Run Trail
7765 River Rd, Blount County, Tennessee, 37882, United States
OpenStreetMap Google Maps
Smoky Mountain Bigfoot 5K & Fun Run [facebook.com] [Register at runsignup.com]
Sat, May 02, 2026 at 8:50 AM

Description

Lace up your running shoes and embark on a legendary run through the Smokies! The Smoky Mountain Bigfoot 5K & 1 Mile Fun Run in Townsend, TN, invites runners, walkers, and Bigfoot enthusiasts to join...

Lace up your running shoes and embark on a legendary run through the Smokies! The Smoky Mountain Bigfoot 5K & 1 Mile Fun Run in Townsend, TN, invites runners, walkers, and Bigfoot enthusiasts to join a race that’s equal parts thrill and mystery. Set against the beautiful backdrop of the Great Smoky Mountains, this unique 5K event combines fitness and folklore in an unforgettable way.

Participants will wind their way through scenic trails where, rumor has it, Bigfoot might just make an appearance! With a course suitable for all levels, from seasoned runners to casual joggers, the Bigfoot 5K offers a perfect adventure for families, friends, and anyone drawn to the magic of the Smokies. Stick around after the race for awards, photo ops, and the Smoky Mountain Bigfoot Festival featuring live music, vendors, food trucks, Bigfoot competitions, special guests, family-fun zone and much more.

Both the 5K race and 1 mile fun run/walk start at the Peaceful Side Social and features the best swag in the history of Bigfoot 5Ks - you thought last year was good, this year is even 'Squatchier!!

The 1 mile fun run will start at 8:50am, and the 5K will start at 9:00 am, with full support along the way and a guaranteed good time! You might even (okay, you almost certainly will) experience a 'Squatch sighting along the course!

Bring your best Bigfoot-inspired gear, and let’s make tracks together for a day of fitness, fun, and maybe a little bit of mystery!

Due to insurance regulations, we can't have pets in either race. Strollers or wagons are only allowed on the 1 mile fun run.

Note that if you move your car after the race, you'll be asked to pay $25 for parking. Your non-running companions will need to pay the $15 entry fee (or $10 advance purchase) -- get your family their tickets in advance and save time at the entrance gate here: https://www.thebigfest.com/.

1 Miles 5k Fun Run Run Trail Walk
East Lamar Alexander Parkway, Blount County, Tennessee, 37882, United States
OpenStreetMap Google Maps
Tour de Rocky Top [runsignup.com]
Sat, Jul 11, 2026 at 7:30 AM

Description

Welcome to the 20th edition for the Tour de Rocky Top, the Knoxville area's largest cycling event.

After 18 years at Barley's, Race Day Events is returning for the second year to Peaceful Side Social...

Welcome to the 20th edition for the Tour de Rocky Top, the Knoxville area's largest cycling event.

After 18 years at Barley's, Race Day Events is returning for the second year to Peaceful Side Social in Townsend. Reviews from the first edition at Peaceful Side were very positive, with the number one improvement being the route "approach" from Townsend instead of from downtown Knoxville. The same great Blount and Sevier Co roads are back again in 2026, along with the much improved post ride meal offered by Peaceful Side this past year.

The 2026 TdRT has expanded yet again to include EIGHT route options. These will include a slightly revised 24 miler, along with moderate 42 and 50 mile options for those not comfortable riding the longer distances. Those longer distances include a 62 and 77, both very similar to last year, along with a new 88 mile route that also avoids Butterfly Gap. The two Butterfly Gap options this year are 60 and 82 miles. Both Butterfly Gap route option finishers will receive Butterfly Gap finisher medals.

For those not familiar, Butterfly Gap is a short but epic 2.4 mile climb, averaging 8.2% but with sections approaching 18%. Butterfly Gap has been targeted for training by many pro cyclists including George Hincapie, Christian VandeVelde, Robbie Ventura, Brent Bookwalter, & Tom Danielson, and has been described by some as the toughest short climb in the southeast.

The final 8 miles of all routes have been changed to make the return to Townsend and Peaceful Side more moderate terrain.

Fully stocked rest stops ~every 15 miles, with all routes fully supported with multiple sag vehicles and moto support. Soft cotton ride logo shirt guaranteed to all riders, as well as DeFeet TdRT logo socks.

The post ride celebration at Peaceful Side Social will again exceed anything seen at previous TdRT editions. Cyclists will enjoy an outstanding post ride meal featuring fresh items from the chef curated menu from PSS, along with two free beers. Tour de France viewing (Stage 8) on several big screens will return in 2026.

Expected participation--350

All routes roll out at 7:30am

Packet pickup:

Thursday (7/9)), Crown Cleaners, 9409 S. Northshore, from 3 to 6pm.

Friday (7/10), Peaceful Side Brewery (MARYVILLE location)), 106 Everett Ave, Maryville, TN 37804, from 3 to 6pm

DAY OF RIDE PACKET PICKUP begins at 6am at Peaceful Side Social, 7967 E Lamar Alexander Pkwy, Townsend, TN 37882

Day of ride registration is available for $85.

Join the event at Ride with GPS and get premium services provided by Race Day Events

RIDE PARKING at Peaceful Side Social.

Registration Cost Schedule (these prices INCLUDE online processing fees):

$50, Dec 16 thru Dec 25

$60, Dec 26 thru Mar 1

$65, March 2 thru June 21

$70, June 22 thru July 5

$75, July 6 thru July 10

$85, Day of ride

88 Miles Cycling
East Lamar Alexander Parkway, Blount County, Tennessee, 37882, United States
OpenStreetMap Google Maps
Great Smoky Mountains Half Marathon [vacationraces.com]
Fri, Aug 28, 2026

5k 26k Half Marathon Run
Townsend Trail, Blount County, Tennessee, 37782, United States
OpenStreetMap Google Maps
Great Smoky Mountains Half Marathon [finishers.com]
Sat, Sep 05, 2026

5k Half Marathon Run
Blount County, Tennessee, United States
OpenStreetMap Google Maps
Cades Cove Loop Lope [friendsofthesmokies.org] [Register at runsignup.com]
Sun, Nov 08, 2026 at 7:30 AM
Description
The Cades Cove Loop Lope is the only organized footrace held inside Great Smoky Mountains National Park, to benefit Friends of the Smokies. All funds raised benefit park projects and programs such as...
The Cades Cove Loop Lope is the only organized footrace held inside Great Smoky Mountains National Park, to benefit Friends of the Smokies. All funds raised benefit park projects and programs such as historic preservation, wildlife conservation, native plant and grassland restoration, and so much more.

There are two course options, a 5K or a USATF Certified 10-Mile Loop. Participation is limited to 750 total runners. This race sells out fast, so please don't wait to register!

You can pick up your race day packets and race bibs at either of the following times/locations:
- Thursday, November 5, 2026, 3-6PM at River Sports Outfitters – 2918 Sutherland Ave, Knoxville, TN
- Saturday, November 7, 2026, from 2-5pm at the Townsend Visitor Center – 7906 E Lamar, Alexander Pkwy, Townsend, TN
Carpooling is essential to maximizing participation in this race. A limited number of vehicle reservation passes for on-site access in Cades Cove will be available for purchase for an additional fee. Please note: Parking reservation passes typically sell out the day registration opens. Registrants who do not purchase a vehicle pass must either carpool with a passholder they know or utilize the group transportation option from the Townsend Visitors Center. A handicapped accessible shuttle will be available at the Townsend Visitors Center.
5k 10 Miles Run
Cades Cove Loop Road, Blount County, Tennessee, 37882, United States
OpenStreetMap Google Maps
Run Santa Run Smokies [finishers.com]
Sun, Dec 06, 2026

5k 10k Half Marathon Run
Blount County, Tennessee, United States
OpenStreetMap Google Maps

8 events in Blount County, Tennessee

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