“Half the distance but just as hard.” The High Country Half Marathon is roughly the first half of the Grandfather Marathon which is considered one of the toughest marathons in the United States. We’ve added some incredibly scenic views and a 2.5 mile downhill finish to again end in Davant Park in downtown Blowing Rock, which varies from the marathon, but make no mistake, the course is challenging! If you can complete the High Country Half Marathon, you’ve got something to brag about!
The Half Marathon will begin in Boone at ASU’s Kidd Brewer Stadium. Out of the stadium, the course will follow a flat River’s St. onto Blowing Rock Road (mile 1 @ IHOP). Taking a right onto Winkler’s Creek Rd. at Bojangles, the route begins it’s curves and gradual uphill following along the picturesque Winkler’s Creek. The route will then take a right onto Russ Cornett Road (mile 3) with more curves and gradual uphills and downhills. **New** At mile 4.4, the route will take a right onto Diamond Ranch. Next turn is a left onto Poplar Grove Road then a left onto Shulls Mill Road at mile 7.5. At Highway 221 the course turns left into Blowing Rock. Taking the first road on the right, the course turns onto Laurel Lane looping around the Equestrian Center. Taking another right onto Wonderland Trail and the finest views in the south, the course continues to wind downhill and to the right on Wonderland Trail until a left turn back onto Laurel Lane (near Bistro Roca). The route is completed with a right turn onto Clark Street and a short jaunt to finish at Davant Field.
Complimentary shuttles will provide transportation for runners from the finish line in Blowing Rock back to the starting area on ASU’s campus. There will also be a dedicated gear shuttle to transport participant’s belongings to the finish line.
The post-race celebration will include live music and food and drinks sponsored by the Blowing Rock Ale House and the Boone Brewing Company!!
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