Black Bear Half Marathon and 8k
Presented by Hunter Subaru, this exciting fall event in Hendersonville, North Carolina, is suitable for both seasoned athletes and recreational runners. The race offers a unique opportunity to challenge limits while enjoying the autumn splendor. Participants can choose between the half marathon (13.1 miles) or the 8k. Both courses are USATF Sanctioned and Certified. A virtual option is also available.
The Half Marathon course features less than 400 feet of elevation gain, making it a fast course during the beautiful autumn season in Western North Carolina. This race is part of the Appalachian Trilogy Series.
What's included with your race entry:
- Long sleeve dri-fit shirt (Half Marathon) or short sleeve dri-fit shirt (8k) - FREE until Sunday, September 13th (after which they are available for purchase).
- Commemorative finisher medal for all participants.
- Complimentary beer (21+) at Oklawaha Brewing.
- Hunter Subaru goody bag.
- Chip-timing for accurate results.
- Complimentary race photos.
- Well-marked, mostly flat course on a beautiful greenway.
- Spectator-friendly course.
- One-of-a-kind prizes for overall and age group winners.
Packet Pickup: Details available via a link.
Black Bear Fall Market: Happening on race day, Sunday, October 11th from 8:30 am to 11:30 am at Jackson Park, Hendersonville, NC, featuring local artisans, live music, food, and fall treats.
Appalachian Trilogy: The Black Bear Half Marathon is the 4th event in this series. Registration for the 2026 series opens December 18th, 2025.
Event Schedule:
- Saturday, October 10, 2026: Packet Pickup at Oklawaha Brewing (1:00 PM - 5:00 PM)
- Sunday, October 11, 2026: Packet Pickup at Jackson Park (6:30 AM - 7:30 AM)
- Sunday, October 11, 2026: 8k Race Start (8:00 AM)
- Sunday, October 11, 2026: Black Bear Fall Market (8:00 AM - 11:30 AM)
- Sunday, October 11, 2026: Half Marathon Race Start (8:20 AM)
- Sunday, October 11, 2026: 8k Awards Ceremony (9:45 AM)
- Sunday, October 11, 2026: Half Marathon Awards Ceremony (11:00 AM)
- Sunday, October 11, 2026: Course Cutoff (12:00 PM)
