Race 13.1 Asheville, NC

The Blue Cross and Blue Shield of NC Race 13.1 Asheville, NC half marathon, 10k and 5k returns on November 12, 2016 to one of the most quintessential and beautiful mountain towns in western North Carolina. The race will start and end in the heart of downtown Asheville at the historic Pack Square Park, and feature some of the best sites Asheville has to offer, including the scenic Reed Creek Greenway, the beautiful Asheville Botanical Gardens and the campus of UNC-Asheville. Returning runners will be happy to hear that this year's route features a 15% decrease in elevation from 2015 and will make an extra loop around the downtown Asheville area at the start of the race, eliminating the second trip up to the Nut Hill lookout point!

This thriving mountain city features a funky and eclectic downtown, 30-plus art galleries downtown alone, a burgeoning culinary scene, a thriving live music scene and the awe-inspiring scenery of the Appalachian Mountains. This is the perfect race destination for anyone looking for a weekend filled with culture, great dining and beautiful views of the Blue Ridge Mountains! If running a 5k, 10k or half marathon isn't enough, a scenic hike - or at least a drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway - should definitely be added to your plans!