Half Marathon Near Mooresville: The Forest Run, 21 Minutes Up the Road
Mooresville, your June half marathon is in your backyard. The 8th Annual Lean30 Lake Norman Half Marathon Forest Run & 5K runs entirely inside Lake Norman State Park, about 12 miles from downtown. Every mile is paved, most of it is under the trees, and you'll be home before the lake traffic wakes up.
Why Mooresville runners pick this one
Pick up your packet in town
Friday before the race, noon to 2 PM, at Charlotte Running Company in Mooresville Commons. Race morning is just park, pin and go.
Shade in June
Tall trees cover most of the course. On a North Carolina summer morning, that counts for a lot.
Paved the whole way
It looks like a trail run and runs like a road race. No roots, no rocks, road shoes are fine.
The medal
We'll say it: the best finisher medal in North Carolina. Half marathoners get a hoodie too.
Getting there from Mooresville
From downtown, take US-21 North to Cornelius Rd, then Perth Rd to State Park Rd. About 12 miles and about 21 minutes. Inside the park, follow the signs to the beach parking lot, not the visitor center.
Timing tip: half marathoners should leave Mooresville by about 6:30 AM to park and grab a bib before the 7:30 start. 5K runners can leave closer to 6:45.
Pick your distance
| Half marathon | 5K | Virtual | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Start | 7:30 AM | 7:35 AM | Any time, any place |
| Price through Feb 28 | $65 | $30 | $79 |
| Swag | Medal + hoodie | Medal + t-shirt | Medal, t-shirt and swag, shipped |
| Awards | Top 3 men & women overall and per age group | Top 10 men & women overall | Participation medal |
Prices go up March 1, 2027. RunSignUp adds a signup fee at checkout. Half marathoners need to finish by 11:00 AM (3.5 hours).
Questions
How far is the Forest Run from Mooresville?
About 12 miles and 21 minutes from downtown, via US-21 North, Cornelius Rd and Perth Rd. The race is at Lake Norman State Park, 759 State Park Rd, Troutman.
Can I pick up my packet in Mooresville?
Yes. Friday before the race, 12–2 PM, at Charlotte Running Company, 146 Mooresville Commons Way, Suite I. You can also pick up race morning from 6:30 AM at the park.
Is it a trail race?
No. Both courses are on paved roads inside the state park. No off-road sections.
Can my kids come?
Yes. Strollers start at the back of the 5K, and kids under 4 walk free with a parent. No pets.