The idea for a big race event grew organically, sparked by the lovely park itself and by runners who wanted something different. Cordelia Morrell, Dollywood’s Group Sales Director, told me, “The Smoky Mountains are one of the most beautiful places in the country, and we’ve had runners reach out telling us they wanted to experience a race here in the middle of it all.”
For Morrell and the Dollywood team, the appeal was obvious. “We think it is going to be one of the most beautiful—and fun—courses they are going to find anywhere,” she explained.
The concept also resonated personally with Dollywood leadership. “Eugene Naughton, our park president, is a runner himself and is excited about welcoming guests here to enjoy this inaugural event,” Morrell noted.
Unlike traditional road races that stick to city streets or closed highways, Run Dollywood will quite literally move runners through the park’s landscape. “The races will feature most of Dollywood theme park,” Morrell said, adding that “the 10K will also include Splash Country.” For those tackling longer distances, the experience expands even further: “In addition, the half-marathon will utilize some of the surrounding roads in Pigeon Forge.”
The weekend is designed to be as welcoming to families as it is to serious runners. Participants won’t have to choose between race day and theme-park time. “We are offering discounted ticket packages for race participants,” Morrell said. “It is certainly the perfect marathon weekend for the whole family.”
There is, however, one thing runners should take seriously as they prepare. “The main piece to remember is that they are running through the Great Smoky Mountains and they should be prepared for the elevation gains that happen throughout the course,” Morrell cautioned.
While Dolly Parton herself may not be lining up at the start, her influence will be unmistakable. “As our Dreamer-in-Chief, Dolly is always represented throughout the park and inspires us in all we do,” Morrell shared. That inspiration takes a tangible form in one of the weekend’s signature challenges. “Specifically for the race events, we have developed the Butterfly Challenge for anyone who competes in the 5K, 10K, and the half-marathon.” The reward is deeply tied to the park’s storytelling. “The medal for that challenge is inspired by the large pink butterfly that signifies the entrance to Songteller inside The Dolly Parton Experience.”
What runners can also count on is a carefully curated experience from start to finish. “Runners can win exclusive inaugural race medals while enjoying live music and on-course entertainment as they make their way through the award-winning park,” Morrell said. Every participant goes home with keepsakes from the first-ever event. “All participants receive an inaugural event-specific T-shirt, race bib, and commemorative medal.”
Following the event, participants can spend the rest of the day in Dollywood. For those who have never set foot inside the theme park, the experience may come as a surprise. “For those who have never been to Dollywood, we think they’ll be surprised by the fun and excitement that our guests have come to love so much during their trips to the park,” Morrell said. Hospitality, she adds, is part of the course itself. “We’re known for our hospitality and friendliness, and we hope they will experience that ‘every step of the way.’”
Registration for the inaugural Run Dollywood Race Weekend is now open, with races scheduled for April 25 – 26, 2026. For runners looking to combine endurance, entertainment, fun rides, and a mountain getaway, the Smokies are about to offer a starting line unlike any other.