Helenback Race Series

Event

The Helenback Race Series is scheduled for Saturday, April 18, 2026, in Helen, GA near downtown. The event is organized as a non-profit; a portion of proceeds will support Unicoi State Park and White County ROTC. All races start and finish on the field adjoining the Chattahoochee River. There is a mandatory pre-race meeting 20 minutes before each race. The organizer enforces a strict no-refund, no-transfer, no-deferral policy.

Distances

• Marathon
• Half Marathon
• 4 Miler

Course and aid stations

Courses run on trails around Unicoi State Park and the Smith Creek/Lake Trail area, with initial climbs of about 400 feet on a gravel service road. Features named in course descriptions include Bottoms Loop Trail, Smith Creek Dam, Anna Ruby Falls, FS 690, Tray Mountain/Appalachian Trail, Bear Trap, and the large field at the finish. The half marathon route includes a climb to the upper terminus of Hickory Nut Ridge with about 1,000 vertical feet of ascent. The 4 Miler follows Unicoi trails and offers panoramic views of Helen, Sautee Valley, and Yonah Mountain. Aid stations are provided approximately every 4-6 miles; some stations are limited and may offer water only.

Cutoffs and logistics

The marathon and half marathon have multiple enforced cutoffs by mile marker; marathon cutoffs include an approximate 6-mile checkpoint at Anna Ruby Falls and additional cutoffs at mile 9.6, mile 15, and mile 21.9. Half-marathon cutoffs include Bear Trap and the field checkpoint. Packet pickup is available Friday 3:00–5:00 pm at the start/finish area and on race day beginning at 6:15 am. Parking for about 150 cars is provided at the start/finish field; overflow parking will be across the river at the outlet mall, with about a 0.25 mile walk back to the field. Port-o-johns are available at the start/finish area. GUTS members receive a discount on entry fees. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.