Black Bear Half Marathon & 8k

Black Bear Half, the most popular, scenic, fall, Half Marathon in WNC, returns during peak leaf season with its beary speedy companion the 8k.
The 7th Annual Black Bear Half Marathon presented by Hunter Subaru is a boutique style, 13.1 mile running race happening near Asheville in Hendersonville, NC. The 8k returns to compliment our most popular fall half marathon event on the same day. Both races take place simultaneously in Hendersonville, NC and on downtown Hendersonville city streets, park pathways and the Oklawaha Greenway.
The Black Bear Half Marathon is the last race in the Appalachian Trilogy series for the year. Runners that complete 3 out of 4 'idaph events' half marathons in 2026, get a special, commemorative Appalachian Trilogy medal.
General Event Info
Both races start and finish are at Jackson Park, Hendersonville, North Carolina just outside of Asheville. For info regarding both the events and to sign up - Visit blackbearhalfmarathon.com/ or email support@idaph.net.
Bring the Speed
Both races are primarily run on very scenic, mostly flat courses along the Oklawaha Greenway. They are both spectator friendly allowing family and friends to cheer participants on throughout the race. The 8k race is very fast with some of the fastest times for this distance and lots of personal records (PR’s) for all runners of varying abilities.
Prize money! Overall male and female winners of the 8k will win $100 each in cash prize money and 2nd and 3rd will also take home some cash.
Come experience the best that WNC has to offer with a magical fall running experience!
For more info and to sign up: blackbearhalfmarathon.com/