Events

A portion of proceeds from these annual events support the TPRA scholarship program which provides funding for professional development opportunities to Tennessee State Park Rangers, Managers and other commissioned staff who are TPRA members.

The Bicycle Ride Across Tennessee (BRAT)

The Bicycle Ride Across Tennessee (BRAT) is a multi-day bicycle tour through a different part of Tennessee each year. The ride travels from one Tennessee State Park to another through the beautiful backroads of the state.

BRAT is sponsored by Tennessee State Parks and benefits the Cumberland Trail State Scenic Trail, and the Tennessee Park Rangers Association.

Savage Gulf Marathon

The Savage Gulf Marathon is one of the toughest marathons in the Southeast, featuring descents and climbs into and out of the the Savage Gulf on Tennessee’s Cumberland Plateau. The race takes place annually in March and is coordinated by the Tennessee Park Rangers Association. Proceeds benefit the TPRA scholarship fund.

WALKING TALL 50K TRAIL RACE

Big Hill Pond’s Walking Tall 50k Trail race takes place on the 3rd Saturday of October every year. The race’s name references local sheriff Buford Pusser, who is known for his virtual one-man war on moonshining, prostitution, gambling, and other vices along the Mississippi–Tennessee state line.

Cummins Falls Marathon

This annual race is held by the Friends of Cummins Falls State Park in scenic Jackson County Tennessee, and features four certified routes: a full marathon, a half marathon, a 5K, and a 10K. During the race, the public is invited to attend environmental education programs, and enjoy music and food throughout the day. music throughout the day. The 2021 Cummins Falls Marathon will take place on February 27th.