Local foot races are a great way for fitness enthusiasts, competitive runners, and charity supporters to come together and participate in a fun and exciting outdoor event. With a variety of race distances and themes to choose from, these events offer something for everyone, whether you’re a beginner looking to complete your first 5K or a seasoned athlete aiming for a personal best. Participants can enjoy the camaraderie of running alongside fellow community members, as well as the satisfaction of pushing themselves to achieve their goals. Check out the upcoming local races in Gilmer County to join in on the excitement and experience the thrill of crossing the finish line.
2024 GEORGIA MOUNTAIN TRAIL FEST
April 20, 2024
This is the festival where the Georgia trails community comes together — hikers, mountain bikers, kayakers, trail runners, equestrians, campers, jeep and RV enthusiasts — everyone is welcome! We will have multiple trail related vendors, educational trail talks, food trucks, and hard cider from Reece’s Cider Co.
ACE THE RACE @ CARTERS LAKE
April 20, 2024
Join us for a nature filled run along one of North Georgia’s most scenic routes and around Beautiful Carters Lake. 10:00 start at North Bank park. Start and finish at the dam. Race bibs and Race Tee shirt for participants registered before cutoff. Timing will be provided by Terra Running Company. Register at https://register.chronotrack.com/r/78143 All proceeds help fund the National Public Lands Day Clean-up.
SASQUATCH STRUT @ HARRISON PARK
April 27, 2024
Come out to the 3rd Annual Sasquatch Strut 5K and Fun Run presented by Friends Of Harrison Park, Inc. in Ellijay Georgia. Race day registration and packet pickup begins at 7:30 AM, 5K starts at 8:30 AM. Fun Run starts at the completion of the 5K.The race will start and finish at Harrison Park. $25.
RUN FOR THE SON 2024
May 04, 2024
The Gilmer Christian Learning Center is hosting its 18th annual Run for the Son 5K fundraiser on Saturday, May 4th, 2024. This year the ministry is offering both in-person and virtual options for participants. To register, sponsor, or to get more information, visit www.gilmerclc.org/5k. For questions, please call 706.635.7100 or email office@gilmerclc.org.
ELLIJAY MUSHROOMS FUNGI 5K
May 18, 2024
Starting and finishing at the scenic Ellijay Mushrooms Farm in the shadow of Fort Mountain! We’ll run on rural county roads and into a local winery as well. When done with the 5K enjoy a mushroom farm finish; complete with live music, 10oz of either shiitake or oyster mushrooms (bagged), 1- 12oz beer (21 and over) and mushroom au gratin. Mushroom Finisher medals, short sleeve dri-fit t-shirt for all participants! Awesome raffle prizes and age group awards! Proceeds will go to support local charity. Live music, mushrooms and wine until Noon! Event is rain or shine! Plenty of indoor space and outside tents should it be raining. T-shirts guaranteed for online registrants only (while supplies last if signing up in person). $35
GEORGIA APPLE FESTIVAL 5K
October 14, 2024
The 48th Annual Apple Festival 5K and 1-mile race is a great way to kick off your Apple Festival weekend! This race is a certified course that starts and ends at the Ellijay Elementary School located off North Main Street across from City Hall. Awards are given to overall, master, and grandmaster winners, as well as the top 3 in various age categories.
