The route starts in downtown Gatlinburg, TN at the Little Pigeon River and climbs approx. one vertical mile to the Cliff Tops above the Mt. LeConte lodge before returning back down. This route covers approx. 21 miles and more than 6,000' vertical gain on total. It is a beautiful out and back challenge with the first and final 3 miles on paced roads before entering mostly technical single track. Along the route, runners are treated to spectacular views of the Great Smoky Mountain National Park as well as a few waterfalls and creek crossings. While the out section is a relentless yet often runnable uphill, it treat runners to great views. The descent allows the speed demon to come out, especially the final 3 mile road section back into town.
