Run All Night. Shine All Day. For those who like big miles, good people, and races that feel more like a party than a competition. Perfect for curious first-time ultra runners, seasoned mileage collectors, and anyone who thinks chasing loops in the Smokies with a bunch of slightly off-centered trail …
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Run All Night. Shine All Day. For those who like big miles, good people, and races that feel more like a party than a competition. Perfect for curious first-time ultra runners, seasoned mileage collectors, and anyone who thinks chasing loops in the Smokies with a bunch of slightly off-centered trail runners sounds like a good time.
Some races are serious. This one is serious and ridiculous in the best possible way.
This fall, two trail running communities that know how to throw a proper mountain party – Yeti Trail Runners and East Coast Adventures – are teaming up for something brand new in the foothills of the Smokies: the Smoky Mountain 24 Hour Challenge.
A race where runners gather in Sevierville to see how far they can go in a day, cheer each other on lap after lap, and maybe leave with a story that sounds a little unbelievable.
And because we’re just down the road from the hometown of Dolly Parton, we figured the finishers deserved something with a little sparkle. Run 80 miles and you’ll earn a Dolly-themed belt buckle.
Not a medal.
Not a plaque.
A buckle worthy of the Smokies.
The course is a 3-mile loop. Now before you think 3 miles sounds short, remember this: the best endurance races in the world are built on loops. Why? Because loops turn a race into a community experience.
You’ll see runners every few minutes. You’ll hear cheers every lap. Volunteers will know your name by mile 30.
Your crew can see you constantly. Your gear is always nearby. And every lap becomes its own small victory.
Some runners will chase huge mileage. Some will chase personal bests. Some will just keep moving because the energy around the course won’t let them quit.
By the end of the day, everyone has a story.
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