Savage Gulf Marathon

Event Details

The Savage Gulf Marathon is scheduled for March 28, 2026. It offers three event options: a Marathon, a 25K run, and a Ruck 25K. The event is coordinated by HardWin Adventures and the Tennessee Park Rangers Association. Registration is limited to the first 200 participants.

Course and Requirements

The marathon course is known for its difficult terrain. It features steep descents and climbs into and out of the Savage Gulf gorge. Participants can encounter rocky paths, streams, and bluff edges. The course scenery includes stone formations, waterfalls, and old-growth forest.

A new starting area and a modified course will be communicated to runners one week before the race. To qualify for the marathon, a runner must have completed a prior marathon or longer race. The 25K run has no qualification requirement.

There is a safety cutoff at mile 18, five hours after the marathon start. Runners not reaching this point will be escorted to the finish.

Participation and Awards

All participants receive a participation award. The top three male and female finishers receive additional rewards. Packet pickup occurs on the morning of the event at the start location.

The Ruck 25K involves hiking with a weighted pack. Weight requirements are 20 pounds for individuals over 150 pounds and 10 pounds for those under 150 pounds. A weigh-in is required 30 minutes before the start.

Beneficiary

Proceeds from the event support the Tennessee Park Rangers Association, funding training scholarships for state park rangers. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.