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 11K course (6.8 miles) starts and finishes at the swimming pool lodge at Cumberland Mountain State Park, Crossville. Click here to review course path. After starting in the parking lot, the course goes out to a right turn on Hwy 419 and a steep uphill to a right turn on Hwy 127. At 2 miles, turn right on Old Mail Rd and follow a series of steep up-and-down hills to Coon Hollow Lane at mile 5. At the end of the road, turn right to connect with the park road. Rolling downhill to Hollow Branch bridge across Byrd Lake Dam on Hwy 419 and turn right to the finish at the Lodge. Considered a challenging and hilly course.

Note: The course is under consideration for adjustment to 10K. The potential new course will consist of a reverse out and back of the present course which eliminates the section on Highway 127.

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.