Ache Around the Lake
Ache Around the Lake is a running race on November 7, 2026 in Tryon, NC, with entry fees from $35 to $45.
- Date
- November 7, 2026 (16 days to go)
- Location
- 1005 S. Trade Street, Tryon, NC
- Price
- $35–$45
- Sport
- Running
From the Organizer
21st Annual Ache Around the Lake
8K - Ouch 2 Mile - Kids 1 Mile Fun Run
About the Race
Join the excitement of the 21st Annual Ache Around the Lake, a yearly running event that unfolds across the picturesque landscapes of Lake Lanier, spanning both Landrum, SC, and Tryon, NC. This unique race allows participants to traverse the scenic beauty of two states in a challenging 8K course, covering 4.97 miles of hilly terrain. While not ideal for setting personal records due to its undulating nature, the course promises a thrilling and demanding experience that will put both seasoned and novice runners to the test.
Ache Around the Lake isn't just a run; it's an immersive experience that takes you through the heart of two states, showcasing the natural beauty of the surroundings while pushing your physical limits. With its challenging hills and well-placed aid stations, this annual event is a must for those seeking both a scenic adventure and a test of their running prowess.
Race Day Details
| What | Ache Around the Lake 8K, Ouch 2 Mile, and Kids 1 Mile Fun Run |
| When | Saturday, November 7, 2026 |
| Start Times | Ache Around the Lake 8K - 8:00 AM Ouch 2 Mile - 8:05 AM Kids 1 Mile Fun Run - 8:15 AM |
| Where | Tryon Antique Mall & Marketplace Start/Finish around Lake Lanier |
| Address | 1005 S. Trade Street, Tryon, NC 28782 View on Google Maps |
The Course
The Ache Around the Lake race kicks off with an initial descent, setting the stage for a journey filled with challenging gradients. Brace yourself for GRUNT #1, the steepest hill at just over 1/4 mile into the race, offering an early test of endurance. While this may be the most intense incline, subsequent hills will keep your legs engaged, creating a demanding course that even the most resilient runners may find themselves walking. Aid stations are strategically placed at mile 2 and again around mile 4, providing crucial support to participants facing the unique challenges of this scenic yet demanding race around Lake Lanier.
8K Course MapPacket Pickup
Race Day Only - Starting at 6:30 AM in the parking lot of the Tryon Antique Mall (1005 S. Trade Street, Tryon, NC) (the old Save-A-Lot) across the street from El Sureno Mexican Restaurant on Hwy 176.
Post Race Eats
We will have enjoyable treats after the race... what that looks like right now is not clear, but we like good food after a race so we will deliver the same for you.
Awards
We will be announcing awards at 9:15 AM this year. Official results can be found online later in the day. You can sign up for results notifications via text or email during registration. All awards are by GUN TIME - mass start per race.
The Ouch 2 Mile Awards
- Top 1 Overall Male & Female
Ache Around the Lake 8K Awards
- Top 3 Overall Male & Female
- Top 3 Masters Male & Female
- Top 1 Male & Female in each age group
8K Age Groups
- 14 & under
- 15-19
- 20-29
- 30-39
- 40-49
- 50-59
- 60-69
- 70+
Benefiting The Hospital Foundation
Ache Around the Lake supports The Hospital Foundation.
The Hospital Foundation DonateManaging Your Registration
Update your details or add-ons any time through your RunSignUp profile. Results and photos will be posted on this site after the race.
Manage Registration Results PhotosEvents
Typical Conditions
It's too far out for a forecast, so here's what weather on this date is normally like in the area. A race day forecast will replace this as race week approaches.
Typical High
63°
Typical Low
43°
Chance of Rain
29%
Based on US Climate Normals data from Tryon, 1 mi from the venue.
About Tryon, NC
Population
1,713
as of 2023
City Elevation
1,123 ft
Nearest Airport
GSP
Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport · 22 mi
Major Hub
CLT
Charlotte Douglas International Airport · 73 mi
Time Zone
Eastern Time
From Endurance Grid
A small town race. Lodging near the start could be limited, so book early.
Race Location
What Are You
Waiting For?
Every finish line starts with a single decision. Claim your spot at Ache Around the Lake, put it on the calendar, and turn “someday” into a start date.
16
Days to train
- Race
- Ache Around the Lake
- Date
- November 7, 2026
- Location
- 1005 S. Trade Street, Tryon, NC
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About This Sport
Endurance Grid is here to help you understand the sport, decide if it’s the right fit, and learn how to prepare. For course distances, logistics, and race-day specifics, always defer to the race organizer’s event page.
With running, there's a distance for every fitness level, a community at every start line, and nothing beats the feeling of crossing a finish line you trained for.
Running is an endurance sport that rewards consistency, and showing up every week compounds in ways that will surprise you.
Running
From 5K to marathon, running races are an accessible entry point into endurance sport. There's a distance for every fitness level and a community at every start line.
More Running races near Tryon, NC
Frequently Asked Questions
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Ache Around the Lake
Nov 7, 2026