Cades Cove Loop Lope
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Event overview
The Cades Cove Loop Lope is an organized footrace held inside Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Townsend, Tennessee. The 2025 event is scheduled for Sunday, November 9, 2025. All funds raised support Friends of the Smokies for park projects such as historic preservation, wildlife conservation, and native plant and grassland restoration. Participation is limited to 750 runners.
Course and logistics
There are two course options:
- 5K
- 10-Mile (USATF certified loop)
Both courses use Cades Cove Loop Road; the 5K also follows Sparks Lane and a Loop Road exit. The 5K course includes a low water crossing where runners will run through a creek; a volunteer will be stationed on the far side with towels. Strollers are allowed, but the water crossing and shuttle transport for strollers should be considered. Course sweeps occur after set time limits; participants who finish outside the allowed time may not be recorded as official finishers or receive on-course support.
Packet pick-up is available:
- Wednesday, November 5, 2025, 3-6 pm at River Sports Outfitters, 2918 Sutherland Ave, Knoxville, TN
- Saturday, November 8, 2025, 1-5 pm at Townsend Visitor Center, 7906 E Lamar / Alexander Pkwy, Townsend, TN
A limited number of vehicle reservation passes for access in Cades Cove are available for purchase; registrants without a pass must carpool with a passholder or use shuttle transport from the Townsend Visitor Center. A handicapped accessible shuttle will be available. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.