Events
Join Us for Our 26th Year of Running Excellence.
This race deserves to be on every runner's bucket-list and will indeed be on every runner's "best race" list. Whether you're a seasoned marathoner or a casual jogger looking for an unforgettable experience, the Biltmore-Kiwanis Classic offers something truly special that combines world-class scenery, rich history, and competitive racing.
A Historic Setting Like No Other
Nestled in the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains of Western North Carolina, the Biltmore Estate provides a backdrop that few races anywhere in the world can match. Built for George Washington Vanderbilt II between 1889 and 1895, this architectural masterpiece holds the distinction of being the largest privately owned house in the United States. The 250-room French Renaissance château sits on 8,000 acres of meticulously maintained grounds designed by renowned landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted, creator of New York's Central Park.
As you run through the estate, you'll experience the same breathtaking views and stunning landscapes that have captivated visitors for over a century. The course winds through rolling hills, past pristine forests, and alongside the French Broad River, offering runners a truly unique journey through American history and natural beauty.
A Legacy of Community and Competition
The Biltmore-Kiwanis Classic 15k and 5k races have been a cornerstone of the Asheville running community since 1997. For over two decades, this event has brought together runners of all abilities—from elite athletes chasing personal records to first-timers achieving milestone goals—all united in their support of a worthy cause.
As the biggest fundraiser for Asheville's Kiwanis Club, every registration fee and every stride contributes directly to improving the lives of children and families in our community. The Kiwanis Club's mission to serve children and strengthen communities comes alive through this race, making your participation about more than just personal achievement—it's about making a lasting difference.
What Makes This Race Extraordinary
- Unparalleled Scenery: Run where history meets natural splendor on one of America's most iconic estates
- Well-Organized Excellence: Nearly three decades of experience ensures a seamlessly run event from registration to finish line
- Community Impact: Your participation directly supports local youth programs and community initiatives
- Multiple Distance Options: Choose the challenging 15k or the accessible 5k to match your goals and abilities
- Perfect Timing: Spring racing at its finest, with ideal weather conditions in the heart of the mountains
- Award-Winning Course: Consistently ranked among the most scenic races in the Southeast
Be Part of Something Special
In 2026, we're not just celebrating another year of racing—we're honoring 26 years of community, achievement, and the enduring spirit of runners who believe in making a difference. Join us in writing the next chapter of this storied event. Whether you're coming for the competition, the cause, or the unmatched beauty of running through the Biltmore Estate, you'll leave with memories that last a lifetime and the satisfaction of supporting children in need.
Mark your calendar. Lace up your shoes. Join us at the Biltmore.
Estate Entry For Race Day
Runners
Runners will receive a special free event pass when they pick up their race packets. This can be presented at the gate race morning and is good until 1pm. This pass Does Not give you access to the house or any tours.
Please make sure to bring this pass with you race morning, it is as important as your race bib.
Spectators
Spectators, 10 years and older will be required to purchase a Spectatopr Pass from the Biltmore to gain access to the estate grounds on race morning.
The estate grounds are not open to the public so you must have either a runners pass or spectator pass to gain entry.
Spectator Passes will go onsale after the new year.
Annual Pass Holders
Annual pass holders will get a discount with purchasing their Spectator Pass. You will not be able to use your annual pass to get on the estate because it does not open to pass holders until 9:30am race day.
Since the event takes place while the estate ground are closed to the public you will need to purchase a Spectator Pass at the discounted rate.
Spectator Passes will go onsale after the new year.
Course Details
15k Map
Please note, although traffic will be VERY limited the road is NOT completely closed to vehicle traffic. Keep to the right as much as possible.
There will be a lead vehicle for the 15k.
There will be a sweeper vehicle for the 15k. You MUST pass in front of the Biltmore House BEFORE 9am. If you to not get to the house before that time you will be picked up by the sweep vehicle and brought to the aid station past the house.
You MUST FINISH the race by 9:45am. If you are still on the course at that time move to the foot path and continue directly to Antler Hill Village. Do not go through the finish line.
The 15k starts and ends in the same location as the 5k, near the Biltmore Estate Winery and Hotel in Antler Hill Village.
The race starts with a flat .70 miles along the French Broad River valley.
Mile 1-2 is a climb toward the Deerpark Restaurant and Biltmore Riding Stables. There are rest rooms and an aid station at mile 1.6, Restrooms can be found inside the Deerpark Restaurant. Enter through the side door by the aid station.
Starting at Mile 2 you have one mile of downhill on the Biltmore Estate Dr.
Mile 3 Take a turn onto Approach Rd and have 1 mile of climbing toward the main house. Water stop at this turn.
Mile 4.5 There is an Aid Station with water and Electorlytes as well as a Port-a-John
Mile 5 and 6 Runs in front of the Biltmore Estate, around the Walled Garden and Rose Gardens, past the Biltmore Conservatory. Finally along the Azalea Garden and Bass Pond and Boathouse.
Mile 7 Downhill and flat heading toward the final aid station at Mile 8.
The final portion of the race is again flat along the French Broad River and Biltmore Lagoon, heading toward Antler Hill Village.
5k Map
Please note, although traffic will be VERY limited the road is NOT completely closed to vehicle traffic. Keep to the right as much as possible.
There will be a lead bike for the 5k.
You MUST FINISH the race by 9:45am. If you are still on the course at that time move to the foot path and continue directly to Antler Hill Village. Do not go through the finish line.
The 5k starts and ends in the same location as the 15k, near the Biltmore Estate Winery and Hotel. The course is an out and back along the French Broad River with a turn around point at the Biltmore Lagoon.
There is 1 water stop near the 1.5 mile mark as well as a port-a-john.
Contact Form
If you have any questions about this race, click the button below.
Event Location
Biltmore Estate ~ Antler Hill Village
207 Dairy Rd
Asheville, NC 28803 US
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