Black Bear Half Marathon and 8k

Black Bear Half Marathon and 8k

Presented by Hunter Subaru, this exciting fall event in Hendersonville, North Carolina, is suitable for both seasoned athletes and recreational runners. The race offers a unique opportunity to challenge limits while enjoying the autumn splendor. Participants can choose between the half marathon (13.1 miles) or the 8k. Both courses are USATF Sanctioned and Certified. A virtual option is also available.

The Half Marathon course features less than 400 feet of elevation gain, making it a fast course during the beautiful autumn season in Western North Carolina. This race is part of the Appalachian Trilogy Series.

What's included with your race entry:

• Long sleeve dri-fit shirt (Half Marathon) or short sleeve dri-fit shirt (8k) - FREE until Sunday, September 13th (after which they are available for purchase).
• Commemorative finisher medal for all participants.
• Complimentary beer (21+) at Oklawaha Brewing.
• Hunter Subaru goody bag.
• Chip-timing for accurate results.
• Complimentary race photos.
• Well-marked, mostly flat course on a beautiful greenway.
• Spectator-friendly course.
• One-of-a-kind prizes for overall and age group winners.

Packet Pickup: Details available via a link.

Black Bear Fall Market: Happening on race day, Sunday, October 11th from 8:30 am to 11:30 am at Jackson Park, Hendersonville, NC, featuring local artisans, live music, food, and fall treats.

Appalachian Trilogy: The Black Bear Half Marathon is the 4th event in this series. Registration for the 2026 series opens December 18th, 2025.

Event Schedule:

• Saturday, October 10, 2026: Packet Pickup at Oklawaha Brewing (1:00 PM - 5:00 PM)
• Sunday, October 11, 2026: Packet Pickup at Jackson Park (6:30 AM - 7:30 AM)
• Sunday, October 11, 2026: 8k Race Start (8:00 AM)
• Sunday, October 11, 2026: Black Bear Fall Market (8:00 AM - 11:30 AM)
• Sunday, October 11, 2026: Half Marathon Race Start (8:20 AM)
• Sunday, October 11, 2026: 8k Awards Ceremony (9:45 AM)
• Sunday, October 11, 2026: Half Marathon Awards Ceremony (11:00 AM)
• Sunday, October 11, 2026: Course Cutoff (12:00 PM)