2026 Riverwalk Run Series

AMERICA’S ONLY TWO-STATE 5K SERIES

In 2026, the Riverwalk Run Series proudly celebrates America’s 250th birthday (the semiquincentennial) alongside the states of Georgia and Tennessee. There’s no better way to mark this historic milestone than by crossing the state line on foot in America’s only two-state 5K series.

Whether you’re looking for a scenic run, a memorable weekend getaway, or a fun challenge spread across the year, the Riverwalk Run Series offers a one-of-a-kind experience rooted in history, community, and mountain-country charm.

Each 5K features a 3.1-mile paved course winding through the twin riverfront towns of McCaysville, GA and Copperhill, TN, following the Toccoa River and crossing the historic steel bridge that unites the two states.

All events are walker-friendly, stroller-friendly, and dog-friendly, with evening start times intentionally designed to encourage overnight stays, local dining, and exploration of the surrounding mountain communities.

🏅 THE RIVERWALK RUN SERIES CHALLENGE

Participants who complete all three 5Ks in 2026 earn a special Riverwalk Run Series Challenge Item, recognizing the accomplishment of completing America’s only two-state 5K series during this historic anniversary year.

💸 BONUS SAVINGS:
Register for all three events before March 1 and receive an additional $5 OFF your series registration, on top of early-bird pricing.

📅 2026 EVENT LINEUP

🐟 Burra Burra on the River Trout Trot 5K
Saturday, April 25 @ 6:30 PM
Springtime fun along the scenic Toccoa River, held in conjunction with Blue Ridge Trout Fest, Georgia’s official trout festival.

🎄 WPPL-FM 103.9 Walk the Line 5K (Christmas in July!)
Saturday, July 19 @ 6:30 PM
A festive summer celebration inspired by Johnny Cash’s “I Walk the Line,” with a cheerful Christmas-in-July twist.

👣 Twisted Tomato McCaysville Bigfoot Boogie 5K
Saturday, November 8 @ 4:30 PM
A twilight fall finale and fan favorite, featuring cool mountain air, fall foliage, and legendary fun.

⭐️ WHY PARTICIPANTS LOVE THIS SERIES

🌟 A One-of-a-Kind Course
Each event crosses the Georgia–Tennessee state line twice and highlights the charm of two historic mountain towns connected by river and rail.

🌟 Evening Events & Weekend Getaways
All 5Ks start in the evening, making them ideal for cabin stays, relaxed post-event exploring, and full weekend escapes.

🌟 Peachtree Road Race Qualifiers
All three Riverwalk Run Series events are Official Peachtree Qualifiers for the AJC Peachtree Road Race.

🌟 Fun for All Abilities
Runners, joggers, walkers, families, and leashed dogs are all welcome.

❤️ COMMUNITY IMPACT

Proceeds from the Riverwalk Run Series benefit the nonprofit McCaysville Business Association, supporting tourism, local businesses, and community revitalization efforts throughout the Copper Basin.

📍 READY TO CROSS THE STATE LINE?

Choose your events, save with early-bird and series discounts, and be part of a historic year celebrating 250 years of America—one state line at a time.

Register today and make 2026 a year to celebrate!