Cades Cove Loop Lope
- Date Sun 8th November 2026
- Time 7:30AM EST
- Location Townsend, Tennessee
- Price $107.00
- Races 2 races
- Distances 10 Mile, 5km
Event summary
Join us for the Cades Cove Loop Lope on Sunday, November 8, 2026, in the breathtaking Townsend, Blount, Tennessee, as this unique footrace takes place within the stunning landscapes of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. As the only organized race of its kind in the park, participants can choose between a 5K or a USATF Certified 10-Mile Loop, making it a perfect challenge for runners of all levels.
This exciting event not only promises a memorable experience amidst nature's beauty but also supports a great cause, with all proceeds benefiting Friends of the Smokies. Funds raised will contribute to vital park projects, including wildlife conservation and historic preservation. With a limit of only 750 runners, spots are expected to fill up quickly, so be sure to register early! Don’t miss out on the opportunity to be part of this incredible race that celebrates nature and community while making a positive impact. Remember to plan your transportation in advance, as vehicle reservation passes for on-site access in Cades Cove are limited and sell out fast!
This exciting event not only promises a memorable experience amidst nature's beauty but also supports a great cause, with all proceeds benefiting Friends of the Smokies. Funds raised will contribute to vital park projects, including wildlife conservation and historic preservation. With a limit of only 750 runners, spots are expected to fill up quickly, so be sure to register early! Don’t miss out on the opportunity to be part of this incredible race that celebrates nature and community while making a positive impact. Remember to plan your transportation in advance, as vehicle reservation passes for on-site access in Cades Cove are limited and sell out fast!
Organiser's 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 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.
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.
Races
-
10 Mile Loop Lope
Incl. $7.00 Fee & T-Shirt
Sun 8th November 2026 (7:30AM EST)
$107.00
OPENS 02 JUNRegistration fee is the same for either the 5K or 10 Mile Loop Lope. Carpooling is essential to maximizing participation in this race. Only 100 vehicle reservation passes will be available for purchase for an additional fee when registration opens. Registrants who do not purchase a vehicle pass must either carpool with a passholder they know or utilize the group transportation option which will be provided by Friends of the Smokies. A handicapped accessible shuttle will be available at the Townsend Visitors Center. -
5K Loop Lope
Incl. $7.00 Fee & T-Shirt
Sun 8th November 2026 (7:45AM EST)
$107.00
OPENS 02 JUNRegistration fee is the same for either the 5K or 10 Mile Loop Lope. Carpooling is essential to maximizing participation in this race. Only 100 vehicle reservation passes will be available for purchase for an additional fee when registration opens. Registrants who do not purchase a vehicle pass must either carpool with a passholder they know or utilize the group transportation option which will be provided by Friends of the Smokies. A handicapped accessible shuttle will be available at the Townsend Visitors Center.
Reviews
Done this event?
First-hand event reviews from people who have been there, done that and got the breathable T-shirt, really help everyone choose their next event.
Add a reviewLocation
Cades Cove Loop Road, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Townsend, 37882, TN, United States
Who's In
See who else is doing this event
Be the first
No-one has marked this event as 'Doing' or 'Maybe' yet. Will you be the first?
Cades Cove Loop Lope
