The Northwest Arkansas community is known for its avid mountain biking scene, and the region has graciously supported this beloved hobby with the establishment of miles and miles of interconnected trails and backroads. While these trails have provided paths for the bikers to explore the Ozarks, they also offer a wide selection of pathways for another popular subgroup of Northwest Arkansans: the runners. Many runners call the region home, and several have used their love for running as a method to form new communities. These social groups, often referred to as run clubs, invite runners of all ages, and paces to spend an hour or two of their day to run as a large group, bookended with a casual hangout at the end of the workout.
One former University of Arkansas student combined her love for running with her desire to bring her friends together to form her own run club, and was shocked by how quickly it grew into one of the top run clubs in the area. Kathrine Lee, founder of the 479 Run Club, has been leading the club since March 2024.
“The club basically started with me getting a bunch of my friends together and begging them to go on a run with me. I’ve always been into running, but I hate doing it alone. We have such amazing trails in Fayetteville that I would just always beg everyone I know to come and run with me,” Lee said.
As more and more people started joining Lee on her runs, coordinating them became more difficult. To respond to the demand, Lee formed an Instagram account, which now has over 2,000 followers, and a Strava account, which has over 260 members, for easier access for the community.
“The club has really taken off, especially this past fall. It’s crazy how fast it’s grown. I didn’t expect this at all,” Lee said.
The running club, which is entirely free to participate in, currently meets on Saturday mornings and Sunday afternoons around the Northwest Arkansas community. A typical 479 run club session meets early in the morning at a coffee shop near a trailhead. The runners send off right as scheduled, and the runs are “out-and-back,” meaning that the runners go as far as they like, then turn on their heels and head back to the starting point.
At 479 Run Club, Lee only has one rule: try not to let anyone be on the trail alone.
“I encourage people to show up a little bit before to talk with everyone and see how far they’re wanting to run, what their pace looks like, and then pair up with their paces. No one’s ever alone. That’s kind of my big thing, if someone is alone, I’ll always try and pair up with them or find someone to be with them. We’re a very open community,” Lee said.
After the runners return to the starting point, the runners dive deeper into the social aspect of the club. Many will purchase a coffee and spend the rest of the morning getting to know the other runners.
“We’re not like a track team, running drills and doing all of this crazy stuff. Our runs are very chill, and we’re truly just doing this to get together. If anything, we have people who will just show up for the social aspect of it afterwards,” Lee said.
While regularly running has its physical benefits, Lee believes that run clubs take a much more holistic approach to bettering one’s health.
“There are a lot of people in Northwest Arkansas that are trying to find where they belong or how to meet people, while also trying to stick to a routine of working out and getting healthy, and, through joining a run club, you’re getting the physical aspect of getting healthier in addition to the mental health aspect of being in a great community,” Lee said.
Rather if you are a seasoned runner looking to find other runners on your skill level, a novice runner looking for ways to train, or someone who wants to take their dog on a long walk while surrounded by new friends, 479 Run Club would love to spend a weekend morning with you. If you’re still on the fence about attending a run, check out these testimonials from the club’s members:
Olivia Marshall (20 years): 479 Run Club has given me a community to turn to as an out-of-state college student. Running with them has not only made me stronger physically, but it has also given me friendships and a sense of belonging that I truly love.
Michelle, 40: I moved to Arkansas four years ago and was running around the lake solo. I found this club in May 2024 and I’m so glad I showed up, and I haven't stopped since. I’ve run so many different trails and met so many people - it’s great finding people who enjoy running as much as I do!
Jin Saw, 33: I originally joined for the workouts, but I stayed because of the people. Running with 479 has given me a community I didn’t know I needed - friends who encourage me, push me, and make Fayetteville feel incredibly connected.
Maddie Shults (22 years): Joining 479 Run Club made a new city feel like home overnight. It’s given me a healthy way to build real connections, stay motivated, and meet new faces. This great community is the highlight of my week!
"The club basically started with me getting a bunch of my friends together and begging them to go on a run with me." - Katherine Lee
"We have such amazing trails in Fayetteville."
"We’re a very open community!"
Keep up with the 479 Run Club by following their Instagram at @479.runclub, their TikTok at @479.run.club or by joining the 479 Run Club group on Strava.