Organized Races
  • two runners running on a wooden bridge over some water.
    • Two cyclists on a tandem bike in a rural area under a clear blue sky.

    Sporting Events at Tennessee State Parks

    Tennessee State Parks host a wide range of sporting events that bring people together to explore, compete, and experience the outdoors—from iconic bike rides like the BRAT and Horton 100 to road races, trail runs, triathlons, and seasonal signature hikes. Whether you're chasing a new challenge or enjoying a guided adventure, there's an event for every level of outdoor enthusiast. And you can feel good while doing it, knowing that the funds raised through these events support our parks and Friends Groups in preserving and protecting the places we all love.

    Sporting Events

      • Cyclists in colorful jerseys resting with bicycles on a grassy path.

      Bicycle Tours

      Tennessee is synonymous with the Bicycle Ride Across Tennessee (BRAT), a week-long tour of some of the states most scenic byways and waystations. If week-long tours don't fit the bill there are also shorter jaunts like the two-day Horton 100.  

      Whatever ride you choose, you will see the best of what Tennessee has to offer from the prime vantage point of a bike seat.  

      • A diverse group of smiling participants stands under a green and yellow "Finish" arch at a Tennessee State Parks event. The atmosphere is cheerful and celebratory.

      Organized Races

      Tennessee State Parks offer a diverse lineup of races for every kind of athlete—from the scenic Cummins Falls Marathon and the fast-paced Dam 5 Miler to the rugged Bell Ringer Trail Run. Multi-sport enthusiasts can take on the Run Duck Run Duathlon or the Pickwick Dam Triathlon, each designed to challenge and inspire in the heart of Tennessee’s great outdoors.

    Upcoming Events

    • Cummins Falls Marathon, Half, 10K, 5K

      The Cummins Falls Marathon, Half Marathon, 10K, and 5K is the race that makes winter training worth it. Set at the perfect time of year to turn your cold-weather miles into a powerful springboard, this February event gives runners a clear goal to stay motivated through the winter months. With challenging hills, crisp air, and a rewarding course through Tennessee’s countryside, it’s the ideal winter benchmark for anyone chasing a stronger, smarter, more focused running season. Lace up, layer up, and let your winter work pay off at the finish line.

      Register Here

    • Dam 5 Miler

      Lace up your running shoes and support Edgar Evins State Park with The Dam Five Miler! This 5-mile road race starts at the Center Hill Recreation Area and showcases beautiful views as you cross the dam and venture into the park. All participants will receive t-shirts and finisher medals, and there are multiple award categories. Registration for 2026 coming soon.

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    • Bell Ringer Trail Run

      The Bell Ringer offers 15K, 25K, and 50K races on one of the best trail networks in the Nashville area at Montgomery Bell State Park! Registration for 2026 coming soon.

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    • Duck River Outdoor Expo

      The Duck River Outdoor Expo is an annual event dedicated to the conservation and education of the Duck River. Held at Henry Horton State Park with six miles of shoreline, the expo aims to promote the preservation of this biodiverse watershed. A major event at this expo is our annual Run Duck Run Duathlon! This run-paddle-run 10K route features a ~1.5-mile run on a rubber greenway followed by a ~2-mile paddle on the scenic Duck River and finishing strong with a ~2.5-mile trail run along the Duck River Trail. You can expect a variety of running terrain including grass, rubberized greenway, pavement, and trail! All skill levels are welcome.

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