Held Sunday, Nov. 12, in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the Cades Cove Loop Lope raised more than $110,000 to support the park.
The race, hosted by Friends of the Smokies, attracted about 700 people to run and walk 5K and 10-mile distances. Participants came from 27 states, with some traveling from as far away as Texas and Colorado.
“Experiencing Cades Cove on foot is an incredible opportunity to unplug and enjoy the splendor of the mountains, while also raising critically needed funds to support their care,” said Friends of the Smokies President Dana Soehn.
Funds raised will support a wide range of park programs including historic preservation, wildlife protection, search and rescue efforts, and Parks as Classrooms education programs.