Race to the Rock – 5K Run 2026 — Chimney Rock, NC

Date
August 16, 2026
Location
Chimney Rock, NC
Venue
"Downtown" Chimney Rock
Start Time
7:30 AM
Entry Fee
$30.00 – $50.00
Events
Individual
Includes
T-Shirt
Register NowRegistration Open

Race to the Rock 5K runs through downtown Chimney Rock, North Carolina on August 16, 2026. The single 5K distance starts at 7:30 AM, giving runners an early start to the day. Entry fees range from $30 to $50. Chimney Rock is a mountain community in western North Carolina, making this a destination race worth planning travel around. If you're heading to the area for this event, you'll want accommodation within reasonable driving distance of downtown Chimney Rock to make that early morning start manageable.

From the Race Organizer
IT'S BACK! The Race to the Rock 5K is back! As most of you know, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure were devastated by Hurricane Helene in 2024. While the area is slowly recovering, the Lake Lure Olympiad Committee is pleased to be able to bring back both the Race to the Rock 5K as well as the Slam the Dam 10K, as part of their "Race for Recovery" weekend. Unfortunately, the Lake Lure Triathlon will have to wait another year as the lake is still not up to proper standards for safe swimming. If you're a veteran of the Race to the Rock 5K - welcome back! If you haven't done this race before, treat yourself to a challenging 5K course topped off by a spectacular finish at the top of Chimney Rock State Park with a stunning 75 Mile panoramic view of the Hickory Nut Gorge and Lake Lure. All spectators and participants will need to exit the mountain after the race and awards. Participants will be allowed, at no charge, back up on the mountain after the park reopens. All trails will remain CLOSED until the park reopens.

Hotels Near This Race

Find accommodation close to the start line in Chimney Rock, NC. Sorted by distance from the race venue. Book early — race weekend hotels fill fast.

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Race to the Rock – 5K Run 2026 — Chimney Rock, NC

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Race Travel Insurance

Don't forget travel insurance for August 16.

You've trained for months and booked a trip to Chimney Rock, NC. A pre-race injury, a delayed flight, or a family emergency can derail the whole thing. Travel insurance can help cover your race entry fee, hotel, and flights if you can't make it, and may cover medical costs if something goes wrong on the course. Plans typically only run 5-7% of your total trip cost — and running events are covered under standard plans with no additional coverage needed.

  • Trip cancellation up to 100% of prepaid costs
  • Running events covered under standard plans — no add-ons needed
  • Trip interruption up to 150% of non-refundable costs
  • Emergency medical up to $250,000
  • Cancel For Any Reason add-on available
  • 24/7 real-time support
Get a Quote — Faye Travel Insurance

Affiliate links — we may earn a commission at no cost to you. Coverage terms vary by state and plan. Review policy details before purchase.

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Frequently Asked Questions

When is Race to the Rock – 5K Run 2026 — Chimney Rock, NC?

Race to the Rock – 5K Run 2026 — Chimney Rock, NC takes place on August 16, 2026. The race is held in Chimney Rock, North Carolina.

Where is Race to the Rock – 5K Run 2026 — Chimney Rock, NC held?

Race to the Rock – 5K Run 2026 — Chimney Rock, NC is held at "Downtown" Chimney Rock in Chimney Rock, North Carolina.

Where can I find hotels near Race to the Rock – 5K Run 2026 — Chimney Rock, NC?

RaceHotelFinder shows hotels sorted by distance from the race venue in Chimney Rock. Use the map or list view on this page to compare options and book race weekend accommodation.