2027 Black Mountain Marathon and Mount Mitchell Challenge

After being sidelined by Hurricane Helene in 2025 and 2026, the Black Mountain Marathon & Mount Mitchell Challenge is back for 2027! Starting from the quaint front porch of Western North Carolina, runners will tackle rugged mountain trails with two epic distance options. The Marathon (26.2 miles, ~3,000′ gain) climbs to the Black Mountain Gap overlook on the Blue Ridge Parkway before turning back toward the finish at Lake Tomahawk. The Mount Mitchell Challenge (36 miles, ~4,500′ gain) pushes further, continuing on to the 6,684′ summit of Mount Mitchell — the highest point in eastern America — before descending to that same finish line.

Both races share the first 13 miles together, climbing to 5,340′ with jaw-dropping views of Mount Mitchell as a backdrop. Weather here is famously unpredictable, which is exactly why race organizers say there’s never been — and never will be — a “course record” for these events. Whether you’re an elite athlete chasing a new personal challenge or a weekend warrior looking to test your limits against the mountains, this course delivers an unforgettable, hard-earned finish.

This legendary race is now in the hands of Kick It Events (Leslie & Tim Grotenhuis and Rhianna Zarbock), working alongside longtime race director Jay Curwen to carry the tradition forward. Come join us in the mountains of Western North Carolina for a race unlike any other — register today and claim your spot on the rooftop of the East!