2026 Cheraw 24 Hour

The 2026 Cheraw 24 Hour Run will take place on Saturday, February 21, 2026, at Cheraw State Park in Cheraw, South Carolina. The event is held on the Turkey Oak Trail-Outer Loop, a 4.3-mile out-and-back style trail with minimal elevation gain of approximately 190 feet per loop. Participants can expect a smooth, flat, and fast singletrack trail surrounded by pine trees, turkey oaks, blackjack oaks, and hickory trees. Wildlife sightings, including red-cockaded woodpeckers, deer, and diverse bird species, are common. The event will run continuously from 8:00 AM on February 21 to 8:00 AM on February 22, with an expected weather forecast of mild temperatures, light winds, and mostly clear conditions, making for ideal running conditions.

What is the format of the 2026 Cheraw 24 Hour Run?

The event follows a loop format, with participants completing as many laps as possible on the 4.3-mile Turkey Oak Trail-Outer Loop within the 24-hour time limit. The trail is well-maintained and runnable, offering a smooth and fast surface that is ideal for high-mileage efforts.

What is the elevation gain on the course?

Each loop on the Turkey Oak Trail-Outer Loop features minimal elevation gain of approximately 190 feet. This makes the course suitable for runners looking to maximize distance without significant elevation challenges.

What terrain and scenery can participants expect?

The trail consists of smooth, flat, and fast singletrack, providing an easy and efficient running surface. The course is surrounded by pine trees, turkey oaks, blackjack oaks, and hickory trees, offering a scenic and natural backdrop. Runners may also encounter frequent wildlife sightings, including red-cockaded woodpeckers, deer, and a variety of bird species.

What is the event schedule?

The event begins on Saturday, February 21, 2026, at 8:00 AM and concludes on Sunday, February 22, 2026, at 8:00 AM. The 24-hour time limit allows runners to complete as many loops as possible within this continuous window.

What aid and support is available during the event?

Aid stations are located at the start/finish area, which runners pass at the end of each loop. The aid station offers typical ultra-running snacks such as gels, fruit, chips, and candy, as well as rotating hot meals including burgers, pizza, hot dogs, pasta, bacon, and pancakes. Drop bags are also accessible at the start/finish area after each loop.

What awards and recognition are offered?

The event offers podium awards for the top 3 male and top 3 female finishers. Additionally, a custom-designed 100-Mile Buckle is awarded to any participant who reaches or exceeds 100 miles during the event.

What logistics and amenities are available?

Limited camping sites are available at Cheraw State Park, and participants are encouraged to reserve these during registration. The course is designed to allow access to aid and gear without leaving the trail, making it convenient for runners to manage their supplies. The trail is well-maintained and ideal for high-mileage efforts.

What is the event's mission?

The Mountaineer Rumble created the 2026 Cheraw 24 Hour Run to showcase the trail system at Cheraw State Park, support ongoing park improvements, and introduce runners to a lesser-known but high-quality trail destination in South Carolina.

What is the runner takeaway from this event?

The 2026 Cheraw 24 Hour Run is a flat, fast, and scenic trail ultra designed for maximizing distance. The loop format simplifies pacing, crewing, and mental management, making it ideal for runners targeting 100 miles or using the event as a supported training run. The event offers a low-stress aid setup, opportunities for wildlife sightings, and a picturesque pine forest setting.