2026 Mississippi Trail 50

The 2026 Mississippi Trail 50 takes place on March 6, 2026, in Laurel, Mississippi, at the Longleaf Horse Trails within the DeSoto National Forest, located just south of the city. The event is set in a gently rolling pine forest with mostly single track trails and some double track logging roads. Participants can expect a mix of natural terrain and well-maintained paths, offering a challenging yet scenic experience. The weather in Laurel during March can be variable, with potential for heat, cold, rain, or rare snow, so runners should prepare for a range of conditions throughout the event.

What distances are available for this event?

• →100 Mile race starting at 12:00 PM on Friday, March 6, 2026
• →50 Mile and 50K races starting at 6:00 AM on Saturday, March 7, 2026
• →20K fun run starting at 8:00 AM on Saturday, March 7, 2026

What is the course structure for the 100 Mile race?

• →The 100 Mile course consists of seven 12.5-mile loops and two 6.1-mile loops, totaling approximately 100 miles.
• →The race follows an "all or nothing" format, meaning runners must complete the full distance by the cutoff time or receive a DNF (Did Not Finish).

What is the course structure for the 50 Mile and 50K races?

• →The 50 Mile course includes three 12.5-mile loops and two 6.1-mile loops.
• →The 50K course uses the same loop system as the 50 Mile race but is adjusted to the shorter distance.

What is the course structure for the 20K fun run?

• →The 20K fun run takes place on a shorter course within the same trail network used for the longer distances.

What are the time limits and cutoffs for each race?

• →100 Mile: 30-hour limit (must finish by 6:00 PM on Saturday, March 7). Cutoff to start the final 6.1-mile loop is 4:15 PM on Saturday.
• →50 Mile and 50K: 12-hour limit (6:00 AM – 6:00 PM on Saturday). Cutoff to begin the first 6.1-mile loop is 2:45 PM (8:45 elapsed). Cutoff to start the final 6.1-mile loop is 4:15 PM (10:15 elapsed).
• →20K: 10-hour limit.

What are the packet pickup times for each race?

• →100 Mile runners can pick up their race packets at the trailhead starting at 10:00 AM on Friday, March 6.
• →50 Mile, 50K, and 20K runners can pick up their race packets at the trailhead starting at 2:00 PM on Friday, March 6.

What is the significance of the 2026 Mississippi Trail 50?

• →This is the 30th anniversary of the Mississippi Trail 50.
• →It is the fourth annual 100 Mile event, held in partnership with the Mississippi Ultra and Trail Society (M.U.T.S.).

What awards and mementos are given to participants?

• →All participants receive finisher items.
• →Commemorative belt buckles are awarded to 50 Mile and 100 Mile finishers.

What post-race amenities are available?

• →Food is served on-site at the start and finish line.

What should participants expect in terms of weather?

• →March weather in Mississippi is unpredictable, with potential for heat, cold, rain, or rare snow. Runners should prepare for variable conditions.

Who supports the event?

• →The event relies on dedicated volunteers, many of whom return annually, and is coordinated by the Mississippi Ultra and Trail Society (M.U.T.S.).