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BLACK BEAR HALF MARATHON & 8K

Presented by Hunter Subaru


An iconic fall race in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains


October 12, 2025

The Black Bear Half Marathon & 8k presented by Hunter Subaru is an exhilarating fall event that beckons both seasoned athletes and recreational runners alike. Nestled within the charm and beauty of Hendersonville, North Carolina, this race offers participants a unique opportunity to challenge their limits while immersing themselves in the splendor of the autumn season. Whether conquering the half marathon's 13.1-mile stretch or embracing the spirited atmosphere of the 8k, participants love supportive community vibe, scenic course, and post-race festivities.

Permit pending government approvals  | Race date & course subject to change

why you'll love this race:

  • Commemorative finisher medal for the Half Marathon & 8k participants
  • Hunter Subaru goody bag
  • Half Marathon Participants: Long sleeve, dri-fit race shirt - FREE until Sunday, September 14th
  • 8K Participants: Short sleeve, Bella Canvas shirt - FREE until Sunday, September 14th
  • Professional chip-timing on a USATF-certified course
  • Very well-marked course on a beautiful greenway!
  • Prizes for overall and age group winners
  • An unforgettable pre-event packet pickup Fall experience with Oktoberfest at Oklawaha Brewing!
  • Enjoy the Fall Market with live music, local artisans and apple cider donuts on race day!
  • Present your race bib for a free beer at Oklawaha Brewing (just a few blocks from the finish line)
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What our runners are saying...

"The route was well marked, people were super nice even after the race. The medals and shirts were incredible, loved them!"

"The course water stops had water, sports drinks, and a nice array of gels. Definitely a recommendable race, very enjoyable."
"We do intend to go back and do this one as often as we can. Highly recommended for the pleasant people, the area and the SWAG!"
"iDaph knows how to put on a race. Customer service and communication is excellent. Can’t recommend iDaph races enough!"
"Thank you for this incredible event! It was super memorable for my family and friends."
"Love your events! Big enough to be fun and feel like part of the excitement but not too big to have to stress pre race!"

    The Course

    The Black Bear Half Marathon and 8K presented by Hunter Subaru takes participants on a scenic journey through the heart of Hendersonville, NC.  They will experience a mix of scenic vistas, forested trails, and rolling hills, making it a truly immersive and rewarding running experience. Both courses start and end in Jackson Park and follow paved roads and forested greenways. There will be 2 water stations providing Gatorade, water, energy gels and Jambars. With less than 400 feet of elevation gain, each course is relatively flat.

    Half Marathon  |  13.1 Miles

    Start Time
    8:20AM

    Course Cutoff
    12:30PM

    VIEW GPS ROUTE

    8K  |  5 Miles

    Start Time
    8:00AM

    Course Cutoff
    12:30PM

    VIEW GPS ROUTE
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    Both courses are USATF sanctioned and certified
    Sanction Number: #142774
    Half Marathon USATF Certification Number – NC22016DF 
    8k USATF Certification Number – NC22015DF

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    Post Race Festivities

    After you finish, you'll love our post race festivities. This includes live music, recovery services, and vendors offering the best local food and merchandise.

    Returning this year: The Black Bear Fall Market!

    Get ready to sprint into autumn at the Black Bear Fall Market, Sunday, October 12th from 8:30 am to NOON at Jackson Park in Hendersonville, NC! This year, we're excited to bring you a vibrant mix of local artisans, live music, mouth-watering food, and tasty fall treats. Whether you're racing to the finish line or cheering from the sidelines, this market is a must-see! Bring some cash, soak up the lively atmosphere, and make your race day even more unforgettable.

    The event is open to everyone and will be jam-packed with vendors, food, entertainment, games, and a host of other exciting activities. Admission is free, so there’s no reason to miss out!

    If you’re interested in being a vendor at this event, please submit your application. We can’t wait to see what you have in store for the community at the Black Bear Fall Market!

    Our Presenting Partner

    This event would not be possible without the generous support of Hunter Subaru. Since 1940, the Hunter Automotive Group has been a locally owned and operated business in Western North Carolina. It is their mission to improve the quality of life for their employees, customers, and the surrounding community. We are grateful for their participation and admire the uplifting attitude they bring to our event.

    Our Community Partner

    All signature iDaph events partner with local organizations to help advance their mission. Supporting these causes strengthens our community bonds by addressing the unique challenges and needs within our area. It ensures that resources are allocated where they can have the most direct and tangible impact, fostering a sense of ownership and empowerment among residents.

    The Friends of the Oklawaha Greenway continues to keep the Oklawaha Greenway beautiful, clean and maintained. Funds donated will benefit the upkeep and projects of the Greenway.

    WESTERN NORTH CAROLINA

    Spend the Weekend

    An Authentic Mountain Destination

    If you're not from here, you're going to love visiting here. Experience the thrill of running or cycling amidst the breathtaking beauty of Western North Carolina, where the rugged mountains and pristine landscapes set the stage for an unforgettable adventure. We invite you to make our event your ultimate destination race. Our Visitor’s Guide features lodging options, airport info, and the inside scoop on what to see and do while you’re here.

    View our Visitor's Guide

    Frequently Asked Questions