Discover Chattanooga's Premier Running Races and Scenic Trails
Running offers an unparalleled way to explore a city, and it's no surprise that destination races are drawing more travelers each year. Chattanooga has emerged as a premier running destination, hosting major marathons, an IRONMAN triathlon, and dozens of smaller events. With over 50 trailheads within 30 minutes of downtown, it's also a trail running paradise, boasting some of the Southeast's most stunning paths. Runners visit not just to compete but to immerse themselves in the scenery.
Planning a running trip to the Scenic City? Here are top options to get you started.
Every October, the Seven Bridges Marathon, Half Marathon and 5K
challenges runners to cross the Tennessee River six times, winding through downtown Chattanooga past landmarks like the Tennessee Aquarium, AT&T Field, Creative Discovery Museum, and the iconic Walnut Street Bridge. Starting in Coolidge Park, it showcases vibrant riverfront neighborhoods. In March, the Erlanger Chattanooga Marathon and Half Marathon delivers a picturesque route from the Tennessee River to the base of Lookout Mountain, traversing the heart of downtown.
Craving more? The IRONMAN Chattanooga in September combines a 2.4-mile swim, 112-mile bike, and 26.2-mile run. Prefer shorter? The IRONMAN 70.3 Chattanooga in May halves those distances for an epic challenge.
The Raccoon Mountain Marathon/Half Marathon in March blends road and trail running, launching from Laurel Point atop Raccoon Mountain with steep climbs and panoramic city views. A relay option suits team enthusiasts.
The nonprofit Chattanooga Track Club promotes running and fitness for all ages. Highlights include the Chickamauga Chase—a 15K, 5K, and trail race marking its 49th edition in April 2017—plus the Market Street Mile, Missionary Ridge Road Race, and November's Chickamauga Battlefield Marathon/Half Marathon. In May, celebrate the 50th annual Chattanooga Chase 8K and 1 mile, the area's oldest competitive road race, touring scenic North Shore neighborhoods.
Wild Trails, another nonprofit, champions trail running and outdoor activities. Its race series is a top Southeast points-based trail experience, featuring varied distances like the Nature Calls 15K and 5K, Lookout Mountain 50 Miler, and Thunder Rock 100 Miler. November brings the 9th annual Upchuck 50K, a demanding point-to-point on the Cumberland Trail's technical singletrack, with intense climbs and descents into Soddy Creek, Possum Creek, and Rock Creek.
Retailer Rock/Creek pioneered competitive trail races here. The Rock/Creek Trail Series invites all levels to tackle Chattanooga's trails while supporting land preservation nonprofits.
Don't miss the popular Rock/Creek StumpJump 50K/15K on October 1—a Southeast standout with over 6,000 feet of gain on Signal Mountain and Walden Ridge, offering breathtaking Tennessee River Gorge and Cumberland Plateau views.
From rugged trails to urban pavement, Chattanooga delivers endless running adventures.
Photo Credits: Chattanooga Tourism Co. x2, Roger Ling x2
