Grandfather Mountain Marathon

Welcome to the Grandfather Mountain Marathon held each year (since 1969) during the Grandfather Mountain Highland Games, one of the largest Scottish Games in America.

Every year the Grandfather Mountain Marathon’s (GMM) reputation as "America’s Toughest" marathon attracts runners from all over the country and many parts of the world. The GMM has earned its tough reputation. The race is 26.2 miles long, starting at Kidd Brewer Stadium in Boone, NC at 6:30 am at an elevation of 3,333 feet and climbs to an elevation of 4,279 feet where it ends on Grandfather Mountain in Linville, NC. The course is mountainous and very scenic as it winds through the Blue Ridge Mountains. The course is run predominately on asphalt (3 miles of the course is on gravel). The race will finish at McRae Meadows during the Highland Games, the 2nd largest Highland Games in the world. So make sure you look good at least at the finish in front of those 10,000+ spectators ! NOTE: much of the course will be run on state highway where traffic cannot be stopped to accommodate the runners. No early starts allowed !

This unique marathon will provide challenges that are overcome by the rewards. The GMM is non-profit. All proceeds from this race will go to various Watauga County organizations as well as the Appalachian State Track Program. Thank you for your support !