Smoky Mountain Relay
Pisgah Forest, United States • 24-25 Apr 2026
Smoky Mountain Relay
The Smoky Mountain Relay is a team-based distance event covering a course of over 200 miles through the Blue Ridge Mountains of Western North Carolina. The route begins at the Pisgah Ranger Station Visitor Center near Brevard and concludes at the Nantahala Outdoor Center in Bryson City. Participants travel through five counties, the Pisgah National Forest, and the Nantahala National Forest, including two exchange points located on the Blue Ridge Parkway.
The course features a total of 36 legs with varied terrain, including:
- Paved roadways
- Gravel and dirt forest service roads
- Technical trail sections
Teams can choose from three different categories based on the number of runners:
- 6-person teams
- 9-person teams
- 12-person teams
The event includes sections of night running on roadways and through wooded areas. Registration follows a tiered pricing structure with seasonal increases leading up to the race dates in late April. Discounts are available for specific team types, including military personnel, students, all-female teams, and corporate or non-profit groups.
A packet pick-up is organized prior to the event, and participants can access a race bible and packing list via the official channels. The race organizers also provide information for van rentals and lodging to assist teams with the logistical requirements of the relay. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.