Land and Lakes Relay

Overview

The Land and Lakes Relay is returning for its fourth year in late February 2026. The relay starts at Warren Wilson College in East Asheville and finishes at Fonta Flora Brewery-Whippoorwhill Farm in Nebo, near Lake James. The event is team-based and will be capped at 60 teams. Team captains register and pay the full fee; team members register under their team for no charge.

Course and format

The course travels east from Warren Wilson College through Swannanoa, Black Mountain, around Lake Tomahawk, follows much of the Geyser Growl Half Marathon route into Old Fort, continues through downtown Marion, and approaches the area around Lake James before the final finish at Fonta Flora Brewery-Whippoorwhill Farm. Legs are being redesigned for several sections this year. Teams may use the traditional leg rotation or structure legs to fit their group, with the requirement that teams check in at each transfer point and identify the next runner.

• Leg distances range from 2.7 miles to 8.7 miles
• Runner totals for four-person teams: 14.9, 15.5, 17.7, 12.6 miles
• Runner totals for six-person teams: 11.0, 9.2, 9.1, 9.8, 12.5, 9.1 miles

Logistics and rules

During early morning hours all runners must wear reflective vests and headlamps; flashing lights are strongly recommended. Teams are expected to be self-supporting with their own fluids and food; restrooms will be available at most transfer points. Each team receives one parking pass and may use one vehicle; RVs, campers, and trailers are not permitted. The event concludes with a post-race gathering at Fonta Flora Brewery-Whippoorwhill Farm including team photos, awards by age and category, and a complimentary beer for participants aged 21 and over. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.