Harpeth Hills Flying Monkey Marathon 2025

• Challenging 26.2-mile course with 3500 feet elevation gain in Percy Warner Park.
• Emphasizes the pure joy of running, not just race times or certification.
• Limited entry via lottery system, ensuring an exclusive field of participants.
• Strict no-refund, no-transfer policy for committed participation.
• Held in late November with road/pavement course; plan accommodations early.

The Harpeth Hills Flying Monkey Marathon is a 26.2-mile road race that takes place in Nashville's Percy Warner Park, known for its challenging yet beautiful terrain. Runners face over 3600 feet of elevation gain and loss, testing their endurance across scenic overlooks and steep grades up to 12%. Unlike conventional marathons, this race celebrates the raw and demanding nature of running, stripped of commercial trappings such as certification and qualification for the Boston Marathon. The event embodies a grassroots spirit, featuring none of the typical fanfare like bands or wave starts, instead offering the pure challenge of conquering the park's memorable hills amidst dense woods. Since its inception in 2006, it has earned a reputation as one of the toughest road marathons in the U.S., attracting those who seek an authentic running experience over a fast course. This marathon is not just about competition; it's about enduring and embracing the natural beauty and rigorous demands of the terrain, making it a symbol of true running joy and perseverance.

Expect temperatures between 38-58°F (3-14°C) with moderate humidity for the Harpeth Hills Flying Monkey Marathon in Nashville in late November. While the weather is generally favorable for running, be ready for potential rain and cooler morning temperatures. Winds are typically moderate, coming from the north and west.

The Harpeth Hills Flying Monkey Marathon offers an exhilarating 26.2-mile journey through the picturesque Percy Warner Park in Nashville, Tennessee. This course is renowned for its demanding terrain, with over 3,600 feet of ascent and descent, culminating in a total elevation change of about 7,200 feet. Runners will navigate an 11.2-mile loop, supplemented by additional miles on a cross-park road.

Highlights along the route include:

• Mile 4: A challenging uphill switchback leads to a serene clearing with a creek and picnic area, followed by a stone bridge crossing.
• Mile 5: The notorious "Nine Mile Hill" begins, featuring a mix of gentle and steep grades, culminating in a series of rolling crests.
• Mile 7: Runners pass the iconic Stone Gates, circle a flagpole, and embark on a 125-foot climb within half a mile.
• Mile 8: A formidable hill awaits, succeeded by a gentle downhill through the woods.
• Mile 9: The course tackles "Three Mile Hill," a steep ascent of nearly 200 feet in under half a mile.
• Mile 12: A relentless uphill stretch challenges runners with a 250-foot climb over a mile and a half.
• Mile 18: After reaching the lowest point, participants face a climb to the highest point, including the daunting "Hairpin Hill," which ascends 300 feet over a mile.

The marathon's hilly terrain and grassroots spirit make it one of the toughest road marathons in the nation. Unlike many races, it is not USATF-certified and does not serve as a Boston Marathon qualifier, embodying a unique, anti-establishment ethos. Set against the backdrop of Percy Warner Park's dense woods and rolling hills, this marathon promises a memorable and challenging running experience.

While in Nashville for the Harpeth Hills Flying Monkey Marathon, take the opportunity to explore the vibrant city known as Music City. Beyond the race, Nashville offers a rich tapestry of cultural experiences and local attractions. Start with a stroll down Broadway Street, often dubbed "Nash-Vegas," where you can immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of bars, restaurants, and live music venues. For a dose of history, the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum is a must-see, celebrating legends like Dolly Parton and Taylor Swift. Don't miss the Parthenon in Centennial Park, a striking full-scale replica of the Greek original.

Nashville's music scene is legendary, with venues like the Ryman Auditorium and the Grand Ole Opry offering unforgettable live performances. Foodies should savor the city's iconic hot chicken at local favorites such as Prince’s or Hattie B’s. For a more relaxed exploration, visit Hillsboro Village, a quaint neighborhood with charming shops and cafes. The John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge provides a perfect vantage point for spectacular views of the Nashville skyline over the Cumberland River.

To make the most of your visit, consider staying in downtown Nashville or Hillsboro Village, both offering convenient access to local attractions. With the Nashville International Airport just 9 miles away, getting in and out of the city is easy. Use the Oldtown Trolley Tour for a convenient hop-on, hop-off service to explore the city's highlights. Remember to book accommodations and attraction tickets in advance to ensure a seamless and enjoyable stay in Nashville.