South Mountains Marathons
Connelly Springs, United States • 10 Jan 2026
Event overview
The South Mountains Marathons are organized by Tanawha Adventures and are held at South Mountains State Park in Connelly Springs, North Carolina. For 2026 the event will run only a half marathon on January 10, 2026, due to trail closures that affect longer distances. The event has a limit of 200 entrants per day.
Registration opens August 15. The half-marathon entry fee is $75 until October 16 and $85 after that date. Refunds of 75% of the entry fee (taxes and fees excluded) are available through October 15. Refunds of 50% are available through December 15. No refunds, transfers, or deferments are allowed after December 15. If the race must be canceled for reasons such as weather or public health, the organizer plans to offer a course-based virtual option rather than refunds if rescheduled dates are not possible.
Course and logistics
The 2026 half marathon distance is 12.9 miles with about 2,600 feet of elevation gain and a 4.5-hour time limit. The route uses approximately 6.3 miles of double-track trail, 6.2 miles of single-track trail, and about 0.5 mile of pavement. There are two creek crossings and one full aid station on the course.
The course includes steep sections and stairs and features several overlooks created for the half marathon. Full aid station supplies include water, Gatorade (flavor varies), assorted soft drinks, and food items such as bananas, potato chips, pretzels, cookies, candy, Goldfish, trail mix, and PB&J. The event supports the Foothills Conservancy and aims to highlight the park and its trails. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.