Description

2026 Race Date Subject to Change Pending Permit Approval

Experience one of the fastest and most scenic half marathons in East Tennessee. The Little River Rush Half Marathon offers a unique point-to-point course through the peaceful back roads of Townsend, surrounded by breathtaking mountain views and free from the congestion of busier race locations.

Starting at the Smoky Mountain Heritage Center, the course travels one direction to Heritage High School, showcasing over 600 feet of total descent and more than 200 feet of net downhill, making this a truly fast and rewarding race experience.

 
Race Details

Runner Check-In & Packet Pickup:
All participants must pick up their race bib during one of the scheduled packet pickup times (to be announced).
No bibs will be available at the start line.

Start Time: 7:30am

Start Line: TBD

Finish Line: Heritage High School

Course Map:
Update course coming

Giveaways & Awards

Finisher Medals:
All finishers will receive a custom race medal.

Awards:
Top 3 Overall (Male & Female)
Top 3 per Age Group (Male & Female):
1–19
20–29
30–39
40–49
50–59
60–69
70+

Shirts:
The order deadline is May 1st

Race Day Amenities

Restrooms:
Available inside the Heritage Visitors Center, at three on-course locations, and at the finish line at Heritage High School.

Aid Stations:
Located at miles 4, 7, and 10. Each station will offer water and Gatorade.

Parking & Transportation:
All participants must park at Heritage High School, where buses will transport runners to the start line at the Smoky Mountain Heritage Center. Due to limited space, no parking will be available at the Heritage Center. ** Start line subject to change for 2026**

Please arrive early—the final bus will depart at 6:15 AM sharp.
Any runner missing the last shuttle will be responsible for their own transportation to the start line.
Runners may be dropped off at the start line; however, all vehicles must yield to buses.
Buses are reserved for runners and volunteers only.

After the race, runners will finish at Heritage High School and are free to leave at their convenience. Spectators are responsible for their own transportation.

 Supporting Local Youth Athletes
Proceeds from the race benefit the Heritage High School Cross Country and Track & Field programs, supporting the next generation of student-athletes as they train and compete locally and regionally.

 Live Results & Participant Tracking
For live results and Participant Tracking during the event follow runners using the below link:

LIVE RESULTS