Smoky Mountain 24 Hour Challenge

For those who like big miles, good people, and races that feel more like a party than a competition. Perfect for curious first-time ultra runners, seasoned mileage collectors, and anyone who thinks chasing loops in the Smokies with a bunch of slightly off-centered trail runners sounds like a good time.

Run All Night. Shine All Day.

Some races are serious.

This one is serious and ridiculous in the best possible way.

This fall, two trail running communities that know how to throw a proper mountain party - Yeti Trail Runners and East Coast Adventures - are teaming up for something brand new in the foothills of the Smokies.

Welcome to the Smoky Mountain 24 Hour Challenge.

A race where runners gather in Sevierville to see how far they can go in a day, cheer each other on lap after lap, and maybe leave with a story that sounds a little unbelievable.

And because we’re just down the road from the hometown of Dolly Parton, we figured the finishers deserved something with a little sparkle.

Run 80 miles and you’ll earn a Dolly-themed belt buckle.

Not a medal.
Not a plaque.
A buckle worthy of the Smokies.

The 9 to 5 Challenge

Not everyone wants to run all night. Some people just want a big adventure during daylight hours.

The 9 to 5 Challenge gives runners 8 hours to rack up miles on the same 3-mile loop.

It’s the perfect introduction to endurance racing - or a fast-paced challenge for experienced runners looking to see how far they can push in a single day.

The course is a 3-mile loop.