South Mountains Marathons
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South Mountains Marathons
The South Mountains Marathons take place in Connelly Springs, North Carolina, within the South Mountains State Park. Organized by Tanawha Adventures, this event features trail running through a mountain range in the Western Piedmont region. While the event name refers to multiple distances, the current edition focuses on the 1/2 Marathon due to trail conditions in the park's backcountry.
The course covers approximately 12.9 miles and is composed almost entirely of trails, with roughly 12.4 miles on natural surfaces and 0.5 miles on pavement. Participants should prepare for mountain terrain that includes approximately 2,600 feet of elevation gain. The route features multiple creek crossings and includes new scenic overlooks that have not been part of previous race iterations.
The event is designed to be accessible for those with less experience in mountain running while still providing a significant physical test. The course is described as highly runnable despite the steep climbs and descents. There is a single full aid station provided on the course to support runners, and a time limit of 4.5 hours is in place for the distance.
The race is scheduled for early January, which typically brings cold weather conditions. If inclement weather such as significant ice or snow forces a postponement, the event is rescheduled for later in the month.
Available Distances: Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
- 1/2 Marathon: A 12.9 mile trail run with 2,600 feet of elevation gain.
