2026 Twisted Tomato McCaysville Bigfoot Boogie 5K

In 2026, the Riverwalk Run Series proudly joins Georgia and Tennessee in celebrating America's semiquincentennial with three unforgettable events in the heart of Appalachia.

From Spring's Trout Trot 5K to summer's Walk the Line 5K, the series culminates with our legendary fall finale... the Twisted Tomato McCaysville Bigfoot Boogie 5K!

The 5K that started it all began in 2020 and remains a fan favorite!

Join us Saturday, November 14, for an unforgettable twilight run through two states, two charming downtowns, and one extraordinary mountain community.

Our scenic 3.1-mile course crosses the Georgia–Tennessee state line twice, including a trip across the historic steel truss bridge connecting McCaysville, GA, and Copperhill, TN.

Along the way, participants will enjoy views of the beautiful Toccoa River, colorful fall foliage, and the welcoming atmosphere of two Appalachian mountain towns.

Mostly flat with one hill, the course is ideal for runners and walkers of all experience levels.

And who knows .. you might even spot Bigfoot!

🏅 THREE 5Ks. TWO STATES. ONE LEGENDARY CHALLENGE!

Complete all three 2026 Riverwalk Run Series 5Ks to earn an exclusive Series Challenge Prize, commemorating your achievement!

Each event also features a custom finisher medal designed to connect with the others, creating a collectible keepsake of your Riverwalk Run Series experience.

All three Riverwalk Run Series 5Ks are Official Peachtree Qualifiers for the

Northside Hospital Peachtree Road Race.

📅 EVENT DETAILS

Date / Time: Saturday, November 14 @ 4:30 PM
Location: McCaysville Visitor Center

Shirt & Bib Pickup:
Saturday (2:30–4:15 PM) at the McCaysville Visitor Center

Course Map: 3.1 miles, all paved; view more at MapMyRun
Note: Start & finish lines are at different locations; timing is based on “gun to chip” (USATF Rule 245).

🕒 EVENT DAY SCHEDULE

2:30 PM – Shirt & Bib Pickup Opens
4:15 PM – Shirt & Bib Pickup Closes
4:30 PM – Bigfoot Boogie 5K Starts
5:30 PM – Course Cutoff
5:45 PM – Awards Ceremony at McCaysville City Park

Please arrive early, allowing time for parking, packet pickup, and lining up.

🏅 FINISHER MEDALS & AWARDS

Every finisher receives a custom 2026 Bigfoot Boogie 5K medal, designed as part of our collectible Riverwalk Run Series medal collection.

Additional awards recognize outstanding performances:

• Overall: Top Male & Female Finishers
• Age Groups: 1st, 2nd & 3rd Place Male and Female in each age group (0–9 through 80+)
• Adaptive Participation: Recognition for eligible wheelchair participants

Age-group awards are presented in 10-year increments.

🎉 MAKE IT A MOUNTAIN WEEKEND!

The Bigfoot Boogie 5K is more than a race .. it's a reason to discover the Copper Basin!

Bring your family and friends, explore our two-state community, and enjoy everything the North Georgia and Southeast Tennessee mountains have to offer.

Dine Along the River

Celebrate your finish at Riverwalk Shops, home to Twisted Tomato McCaysville, Burra Burra on the River, Happy Bear Ice Cream, and more.

Shop Two States

Explore the locally owned boutiques, specialty shops, and unique businesses throughout downtown McCaysville and Copperhill.

Stay & Explore

Make a weekend of it with a mountain cabin getaway, scenic hiking, fly fishing, local breweries, and nearby Blue Ridge attractions.

Your participation supports the McCaysville Business Association's mission of promoting our unique two-state community and supporting local businesses.

❓ FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Where can I park?

Free parking is available across from McCaysville City Park, with additional parking available throughout downtown.

Can I register on event day?

Yes! Event day registration is available, unless the event sells out.

We recommend registering early to secure your preferred shirt size.

Will water be provided?

Bottled water will be available at the finish line.

Participants should bring their own hydration for use along the course.

What happens if it rains?

The Bigfoot Boogie 5K is a rain-or-shine event. Event organizers reserve the right to modify or cancel activities if weather conditions create a safety concern.

Are dogs permitted?

For the safety of participants, spectators, and volunteers, dogs are not permitted on the racecourse. Service animals are permitted as required by applicable law.

Can I participate virtually?

Yes! Virtual participation is available for those unable to attend in person.

Virtual participants receive the same commemorative shirt and finisher medal, mailed to their registration address.

Virtual registration closes before race weekend to allow sufficient time for packaging and shipping.

Can I switch between in-person and virtual participation?

We understand that plans sometimes change!

Requests to switch between in-person and virtual participation should be submitted by 11:59 PM on Wednesday, November 4, 2026.

Requests received after that deadline will be considered individually, subject to available inventory and shipping arrangements. Changes cannot be guaranteed after the deadline.

Where can I follow event updates?

Follow the Riverwalk Run Series on Facebook for event announcements, photos, and updates.