Gobbler Gallop

DIRECTIONS

Take I-40 from Nashville or Knoxville (East or West). At Crossville, exit #322 head Southwest on Highway 101 (Peavine Road). Continue on Miller Ave. through the roundabout approx. 3 miles to Highway 127 (South Main St). Turn left and go approx 3 miles to Highway split, stay right on Highway 127 South. Entrance the park is approx 3/4 mile on the right. Take 1st left in the park to the Lodge parking area (swim Dr.)

Park Information: 931-484-6138

GPS  35.89609-89.0035

COURSE

The new 10K course will consist of a reverse out and back of the present course which eliminates the section on Highway 127. Starts and finishes at the swimming pool lodge at Cumberland Mountain State Park, Crossville. Click here to review course path. The route starts at the northwest corner of the pool parking lot. Proceeds along Swim Dr., crosses Pigeon Ridge Rd (Hwy 419), onto Camp Dr. around the campground area-4 loop of Camp Dr., and back to Hwy 419. Turns right on Hwy 419, then left onto Play Drive, followed by left onto Cabin Drive, and pass Coon Hollow Cabin. Where the route leaves the park (at gated entrance behind the cabin) and endures along Coon Hollow Road (approx. 1-mile) to the intersection of S. Old Mill Rd and makes an abrupt U-turn. Returning via Coon Hollow Rd, through the park gate, along Cabin Dr., right on Play Dr. (passing the restaurant), right on Hwy. 419, and lastly right on Swim Dr., followed by joyous celebration at the start/finish line.

COURSE HISTORY

This race began in 1979 with a start at the dam. The course was designed by Andy Lyon, the Park Ranger, with the help of Fred Gent and Steve Douglas. The race was added to the Tour in 1983. When the swimming pool lodge was built, the start was moved to its current location in the parking lot. In 2005 the start and finish were held at the Park Restaurant at Mile 6 of the old course, but otherwise identical. Most runners would prefer this location of the start because it puts the first hill at 1.5 miles instead of 0.5 miles. However, since 2007 the start and finish are back at the lodge. From 2015 Terry Walter was the Race Director, then Dan Smithhisler in 2018.

COURSE RECORDS

Men    1993   Lance Winders    36:54
Women    2019    Kiera Woodman    43:00

Post Race

Typically snack type refreshments and award ceremony. Many participants take advantage of the Park resturant which is cafeateria style. The resturant is decorated for the holiday season.

Thanksgiving weekend the race provides a great opportunity for an extended family outing with the many cabins in the Park. Book early as they fill up fast.