HELEN, Ga. — Habitat for Humanity of Northeast Georgia is rolling out major updates for the 47th Annual Hogpen Hill Climb, including a redesigned 5K course, returning 18K challenge, new raffle and swag offerings, and the race’s first-ever title sponsor for the 5K. The event is set for Jan. 17, 2026, in Helen.
Organizers say the 2026 edition will be “the biggest, best and most awesome Hogpen yet,” following one of the race’s strongest turnouts in years. Promotion for the event begins in July as Habitat ramps up efforts to support the businesses that help fund its largest annual fundraiser.
Revamped 5K course through Helen
The 5K course has been completely reworked to offer a more scenic and enjoyable experience. The race will start at the River Pavilion (elevation 1,447 feet), follow the Hardman Trail and, for the first time, wind runners through downtown Helen.
This year also marks the first title sponsor for the 5K: Georgia Mountain Coaster.
18K returns with its signature climb
The 18K will begin from the River Pavilion immediately after the 5K, allowing runners to compete in both events — a challenge some participants tackle every year.
The course mirrors last year’s route, beginning with a gentle start for the first 3–4 miles before climbing onto Alt Hwy 75. By miles 5 and 6, runners begin the ascent up Hogpen Gap along the Richard B. Russell Parkway. Mile 7 is notoriously steep and unpredictable, with weather that may bring wind, ice, snow, fog, or all four — as runners experienced last year.
Organizers say mile 8 is the most difficult stretch, “seemingly going straight up.” Mile 9 levels out before one final steep push to the finish at Hogpen Gap, topping out at 3,485 feet.
Shuttle buses will transport 18K runners back to the River Pavilion, and finishers will again be greeted with hot chocolate and chicken soup from El Jinete.
Raffles, swag and race-day extras
Participants will receive swag bags filled with coupons and items from race sponsors. Raffle prizes for 2026 currently include items from Habersham Winery, Big Peach Running Company in Gainesville, Lowes of Cornelia, Habersham Hardware and Creekstone Winery.
Race shirts will feature a new, unique logo — a longtime collector’s item for Hogpen regulars.
Awards include handcrafted walking sticks, pottery mugs
Top-three finishers in each age group will receive medals, and category winners will take home hand-carved walking sticks created by Earl and Norma Warren of Clarkesville. Each stick is uniquely designed and individually numbered.
Overall male and female winners of both the 5K and 18K will be awarded a one-of-a-kind 47th Annual Hogpen Hill Climb mug, handcrafted by Kerby Wilkes Pottery.
Registration and sponsorships
Registration is open at www.runthehogpen.org.
Habitat for Humanity of Northeast Georgia is also seeking sponsors at multiple levels, from Community Build to Cornerstone of Community, with logo placement on shirts, race materials, signage, and promotional media.
Proceeds support Habitat’s mission to build and preserve homes for families in Habersham and White counties.
