Mystery Mountain Marathon & 12-Miler
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Mystery Mountain Marathon and 12 Miler
The event offers two trail distances at Fort Mountain State Park: a Marathon (26.2 miles) and a 12 Miler (12 miles). The courses run over and around Fort Mountain and include single-track, rugged mountain bike, and smoother horse trails. Runners climb and descend about 5,500 feet in total and pass a low stone wall near the summit that dates back over 1,000 years.
The route begins with a loop around the lake and connects to the Big Rock and Gahuti trails. Marathoners continue onto the 301 loop, which passes through pine and hardwood stands, old mines, waterfalls, and rhododendron thickets before returning to the ridge and descending to the lake. The course has long climbs and technical footing in places; footing generally becomes smoother after the summit wall.
Aid stations:
- 12 Miler: three full aid stations plus one fluids only station
- Marathon: six full aid stations plus two fluids only stations
Markers and safety: the course is marked with flags, tape, chalk, and arrows, with confidence markers every 2–5 minutes and markings placed on the right. Twelve milers follow orange markings; marathoners follow orange then blue after the Power Line aid station. Trails remain open to other users on race day; runners may encounter hikers, bikers, or horses. Bears have been spotted on parts of the course.
The race is 100% non-profit; a portion of proceeds supports Fort Mountain State Park. There is a $10 state park parking fee or an annual park pass. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
