7 running events in Blount County, Tennessee

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.

"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.

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/.