The Cades Cove Loop Lope is the only organized footrace held inside Great Smoky Mountains National Park, to benefit Friends of the Smokies. All funds raised benefit park projects and programs such as historic preservation, wildlife conservation, native plant and grassland restoration, and much more.

There are two course options, a 5K or a USATF Certified 10-Mile Loop. Participation is limited to 750 total runners. The 2021 Cades Cove Loop Lope sold out in just a few weeks!

If you can’t make it to Cades Cove on race day or the race is already sold out, but you still want to support the park, sign up for the Virtual Race! A virtual race can be run (or walked!) anytime, anywhere, even indoors or on a treadmill. Virtual runners will receive a race t-shirt and finisher’s medallion via mail, however, they will not be eligible for awards.

Carpooling is essential to maximizing participation in this race. A limited number of vehicle passes will be available for purchase for an additional fee. Registrants who do not purchase a vehicle pass must either carpool with a passholder they know or utilize the group transportation option from the Townsend Visitors Center.