Cades Cove Loop Lope
Sun, Nov 8, 2026, 2:30 AM EST
- Type
- Run
Finish signup on the organizer site (check fees and dates there).
Race feel
Run inside Great Smoky Mountains National Park for a cause, with limited spots for this popular 5K or 10-mile event.
- Competitive
- For a Cause
Competitive
For a CauseExperience the unique Cades Cove Loop Lope, the only organized footrace held within the stunning Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Choose between a 5K or a USATF Certified 10-Mile Loop. This special event is dedicated to supporting Friends of the Smokies, with all funds directly benefiting vital park projects like historic preservation, wildlife conservation, and native plant restoration. Participation is capped at 750 runners, and spots fill quickly, so early registration is highly recommended for this impactful race.
What to expect
- Run a 5K or USATF Certified 10-Mile Loop course.
- Experience the rare opportunity to race inside Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
- Join a limited field of 750 runners.
Standout details
- Only organized footrace in Great Smoky Mountains NP
- Benefits Friends of the Smokies
- Limited to 750 total runners
- Race sells out fast
Distances & registration
2 optionsUse the official signup link above for all distances.
10 Mile
1 option · closes Nov 8, 2026, 2:30 AM EST
6mo 9d 18h 17m leftLoop Lope
Closes Nov 8, 2026, 2:30 AM EST · From $107.00
5K
1 option · closes Nov 8, 2026, 2:45 AM EST
6mo 9d 18h 32m leftLoop Lope
Closes Nov 8, 2026, 2:45 AM EST · From $107.00
Summaries use public event text. Confirm schedule, fees, and rules on the official page before you sign up.
From the organizer
The Cades Cove Loop Lope is the only organized footrace held inside Great Smoky Mountains National Park , to benefit Friends of the Smokies . All funds raised benefit park projects and programs such as historic preservation, wildlife conservation, native plant and grassland restoration, and so much more.
There are two course options, a 5K or a USATF Certified 10-Mile Loop. Participation is limited to 750 total runners. This race sells out fast, so please don't wait to register!
You can pick up your race day packets and race bibs at either of the following times/locations:
Thursday, November 5, 2026, 3-6PM at River Sports Outfitters – 2918 Sutherland Ave, Knoxville, TN Saturday, November 7, 2026, from 2-5pm at the Townsend Visitor Center – 7906 E Lamar, Alexander Pkwy, Townsend, TN Carpooling is essential to maximizing participation in this race. A limited number of vehicle reservation passes for on-site access in Cades Cove will be available for purchase for an additional fee. Please note : Parking reservation passes typically sell out the day registration opens. Registrants who do not purchase a vehicle pass must either carpool with a passholder they know or utilize the group transportation option from the Townsend Visitors Center. A handicapped accessible shuttle will be available at the Townsend Visitors Center.