Catamount Climb Half Marathon
The Catamount Climb Half Marathon offers a scenic campus and riverfront run supporting student scholarships.
Race Date
Apr 3, 2027
Location
Cullowhee, NC
Quick facts
- Date
- Saturday, April 3, 2027
- Location
- Cullowhee, North Carolina
- Distance
- Half marathon (13.1 mi)
- Course
- Point to Point
- Terrain
- Road
- USATF certified
- Not listed
Highlights
Good For
Atmosphere
The Experience
The Catamount Climb Half Marathon, formerly the Valley of the Lilies, unfolds on the scenic campus of Western Carolina University in Cullowhee, North Carolina. This event, now in its 10th year, winds along the banks of the Tuckasegee River, offering a blend of campus exploration and riverside beauty.
With a median field size of around 265 finishers, this race has shown a growing trend in recent years. Approximately 25% of participants are repeat runners, highlighting a loyal following. The course is primarily paved road, with the half marathon venturing briefly off campus before returning for the finish. The 5K stays entirely within the university grounds, featuring moderate elevation changes.
Proceeds from the Catamount Climb directly support student professional development and academic scholarships through the WCU School of Health Sciences and Department of Campus Recreation & Wellness. All half marathon finishers receive a medal, and participants are treated to a race t-shirt and other sponsor materials.
Race-provided description
The 2027 Catamount Climb Half Marathon and 5K will be hosted on the campus of Western Carolina University in Cullowhee, NC along the banks of the Tuckasegee River. The 5K course is completely on campus and navigates through the heart of campus with moderate elevation change. The half marathon course starts on campus, and then heads off campus for a few miles before returning back to campus for the finish line. The Catamount Climb Half Marathon and 5K (formerly known as Valley of the Lilies) is hosted by the Western Carolina University School of Health Sciences and the Department of Campus Recreation & Wellness. All race proceeds go to support student professional development and academic scholarships. Race Packets Each registered participant will receive a race packet that includes a race t-shirt, a race bib, and various coupons and other sponsorship materials. Finisher Medals will be given to all half-marathon finishers as well. Packet Pick Up will occur the day before the race on April 2nd, 2027 3pm-7pm…
Logistics
Race Day
Saturday, April 3, 2027
Start Time
TBA
Start Location
379 Memorial Drive, Cullowhee, NC, 28723
Course Info
Course Type
Point to Point
Terrain
road
Scenery
Lake River, Park
Surface
Paved
Difficulty
Rolling Hills
Quality Score
Standout7310 years running
~265 finishers a year
growing or steady
25% returning runners
6 timing sources
runners from 7 states
winner 1:21:13
typical high 68°F
Race Day Weather
5-year historical avgStart (Low)
56°
Afternoon (High)
71°
Warm — hydration strategy is key, start conservatively
0.3"
Precipitation
12 mph
Wind
85%
Humidity
Frequently asked
When is the Catamount Climb Half Marathon?
The Catamount Climb Half Marathon is held on Saturday, April 3, 2027.
Where does the Catamount Climb Half Marathon take place?
It takes place in Cullowhee, North Carolina.
What distances does the Catamount Climb Half Marathon offer?
The half marathon (13.1 miles).
Is the Catamount Climb Half Marathon course flat and good for a PR?
The Catamount Climb Half Marathon is a rolling hills, point to point course.
HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.
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