2026 Sandhills Trail Race Series

The 2026 Sandhills Trail Race Series, taking place on February 21–22, 2026, is held at Sesquicentennial State Park, located at 9564 Two Notch Rd, Columbia, South Carolina. On February 21, the expected weather in Columbia is partly cloudy with a high of 48°F and a low of 34°F, with light winds and minimal chance of precipitation. Participants can expect a trail running experience that includes a 7.75-mile loop through the scenic Sandhills region, featuring soft singletrack trails beneath longleaf pines and smooth paved sections along Sesqui Lake. The course offers a mix of runnable terrain and moderate elevation changes, with options for various distances, from a 7.5-mile loop to a 30-hour ultra with 13 laps totaling 100 miles. The event is designed to accommodate runners of all experience levels, with a focus on community, trail immersion, and achievement.

What is the terrain type for the 2026 Sandhills Trail Race Series?

The event features trail running on predominantly soft singletrack with brief paved sections along Sesqui Lake, providing a mix of natural and runnable surfaces.

What is the course description for the 2026 Sandhills Trail Race Series?

The course is a 7.75-mile loop that winds through the Sandhills region of central South Carolina. It includes pine needle-covered singletrack trails beneath longleaf pines, rolling sandy terrain, and smooth paved sections along Sesqui Lake. The loop passes through campground areas, allowing access to personal aid stations near the start/finish zone. The terrain is beginner-friendly for shorter distances, with the challenge increasing for ultra participants.

What distance options are available for the 2026 Sandhills Trail Race Series?

• →7.5 Mile: One loop—ideal for first-time trail runners seeking forest immersion and lake views
• →25K: Two loops—designed for runners stepping up to moderate trail challenge
• →50K: Four loops—a full-day ultra adventure through changing light and terrain
• →30-Hour Ultra: Timed event where runners complete as many loops as possible within 30 hours (13 laps = 100 miles; belt buckles awarded to 100-mile finishers)

What is the race logistics for the 2026 Sandhills Trail Race Series?

All distances start together at 9:00 AM EST on February 21. The event is chip-timed with split tracking at each loop completion. Runners must carry personal hydration vessels as it is a cupless event. Aid stations offer pickles, cookies, chips, fig newtons, pretzels, water, Coke, and ginger ale. Overnight runners (30-hour event) may camp near the field, with limited crew support available from 10 PM to 6 AM. Park admission is included with registration, valued at $6 for a day pass.

What is the event atmosphere for the 2026 Sandhills Trail Race Series?

The event features a relaxed trail festival vibe with post-race music, complimentary photos, custom tattoos/stickers, and a supportive community of dirt-loving runners celebrating achievement at every distance, from first-timers to 100-mile finishers.

What is the community impact of the 2026 Sandhills Trail Race Series?

All donations and race proceeds support the Upstate Running Club Youth Team. The event is part of the Upstate Trail Series presented by Snyder Construction, with age-group series scoring across multiple regional trail races.

What is the event schedule for the 2026 Sandhills Trail Race Series?

The event takes place from February 21–22, 2026. All distances start together at 9:00 AM EST on February 21. The 30-hour ultra is a timed event that runs through the night, with limited crew support available from 10 PM to 6 AM.

What is included in the registration for the 2026 Sandhills Trail Race Series?

Registration includes park admission, valued at $6 for a day pass. Participants also have access to aid stations, chip timing, and a post-race festival with complimentary photos, custom tattoos, and stickers.

What are the weather considerations for the 2026 Sandhills Trail Race Series?

On February 21, the expected weather in Columbia is partly cloudy with a high of 48°F and a low of 34°F, with light winds and minimal chance of precipitation. Participants should prepare for cooler temperatures and potentially changing conditions throughout the event.

What awards and prizes are offered at the 2026 Sandhills Trail Race Series?

Belt buckles are awarded to 100-mile finishers in the 30-hour ultra. Age-group series scoring is part of the Upstate Trail Series, with additional recognition for participants across various distances.