Land and Lakes Relay

2027 Land and Lakes Relay

The Land and Lakes Relay is a one-day point to point team relay that starts at Warren Wilson College in East Asheville and finishes at Fonta Flora Brewery Whippoorwhill Farm in Nebo near Lake James. The 2027 event marks the fifth anniversary of the relay.

The course travels east through Swannanoa into Black Mountain, circles Lake Tomahawk, follows much of the Geyser Growl Half Marathon route into Old Fort, continues through downtown Marion, and reaches the Lake James area before the final finish at the brewery farm. Legs have been redesigned for this year, including changes to legs 6, 7, and 8, and a return to the original leg 10. Individual legs range from 2.7 miles to 8.7 miles.

Teams may be structured so each runner completes two or three legs. Common formats include four- and six-person teams; typical cumulative distances for traditional formats are provided for each runner. Each transfer point requires team check in and identification of the next runner. If a runner cannot continue, teammates may run additional legs.

The event is capped at 60 teams. Team captains register and pay the team fee while team members register under their team name. Teams are expected to be self-supporting; restrooms are available at most transfer points but teams should carry their own fluids and food. One vehicle per team is allowed, parking passes are required, and large vehicles such as RVs or trailers are not permitted. Dogs are not allowed on course or at transfer points.

Safety rules require visible lighting and reflective gear during early morning running hours, and compliance will be checked at transfer points. Timing is chip based with splits recorded at transfer points and provided to team captains. The finish area includes a post race event space with team photos and awards, and a complimentary beverage for participants of legal drinking age. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.