Columbia, South Carolina · Sunday, March 21, 2027
The The Sand Monster is an ultra event held on Sunday, March 21, 2027. It is located at 9564 Two Notch Road in Columbia, South Carolina.
Race Description:
Join us for the inaugural Tico's Gravel Grinder 10K, a trail running adventure through the scenic Harbison State Forest! Celebrate Tico, Palmetto Wildlife Rescue's resident raccoon and beloved ambassador, as he celebrates his 10th birthday with us. This 10K course will challenge you with its rolling gravel terrain, rewarding you with stunning natural views.
The race kicks off at 7:30 AM at the Education Center in Harbison State Forest.
Registration:
• Early Bird (Until July 31): $25
• August 1 - September 14: $30
• September 15 - Race Day: $35
• Race Day: $40
Guarantee your race shirt by registering before October 10th!
Packet Pickup:
• Friday 10/24: Fleet Feet Irmo (945 Lake Murray Blvd, Irmo, SC 29063) - 12 PM - 6 PM
• Race Day: Start Line - 6:00 AM - 7:00 AM
On-Site Vendors:
Topo Athletic, Feetures, Tailwind Nutrition, and more!
Supporting Palmetto Wildlife Rescue:
We're proud to support Palmetto Wildlife Rescue, and proceeds from this race will go to this amazing organization! Tico will be there (in spirit if he needs a nap!), and representatives from Palmetto Wildlife will be available to share information about their important work.
Midland Mountain Trail Series: A Thanksgiving Trail Celebration
This Thanksgiving season, join us in celebrating the spirit of community, gratitude, and the joy of running with our Midland Mountain Trail Series—a festive day of trail running through the scenic beauty of Harbison State Forest. It's a gathering of friends, families, and fellow trail lovers giving thanks for strong legs, open trails, and the people we share them with.
As autumn paints the forest in vibrant hues of red, orange, and gold, you’ll wind through shady woodlands, cross tranquil streams, and conquer rolling hills on a course that challenges and inspires. With every step, you’ll be surrounded not only by the beauty of nature but also by a welcoming, supportive community of runners. Whether you're chasing a new PR or simply enjoying the trail at your own pace, you’re part of something special.
At the heart of this event is a celebration of what we’re most thankful for—the people who make the trail running community so meaningful. Everyone from first-timers to ultra veterans will feel the warmth of race-day camaraderie. And when your miles are done, we’ll welcome you back with a post-race Thanksgiving-style Southern meal—a hearty “meat and three” served with gratitude and a smile.
🦃 Event Details
What: Broad River Half Marathon
Start Time: 8:30 AM
Where: Harbison State Forest
Address: 5600 Broad River Road, Columbia, SC 29212
Packet Pickup: Race morning starting at 7:00 AM under the gazebo at the Start/Finish area.
🥾 Course Description
Harbison State Forest is a hidden gem tucked just outside Columbia, SC. Spanning over 2,000 acres along the Broad River, it offers a network of diverse, well-maintained trails perfect for our fall celebration. You’ll run through tall pines and hardwoods, cross peaceful creeks, and take on varied elevation—challenging enough to keep it interesting but welcoming for all experience levels.
Each trail section immerses you in the sights and sounds of fall in the Carolinas. Expect crunching leaves underfoot, crisp autumn air, and sweeping views lit by golden foliage. The course is well-marked, easy to follow, and absolutely packed with seasonal charm.
Personal Tent Set-Up & Drop Bags
You're welcome to bring a drop bag or set up a small personal tent near the Start/Finish area and main aid station. Please be mindful to keep your gear clear of the course and respect others’ space. When the day is done, help us keep the forest beautiful by cleaning up your area. Leave no trace—only good vibes.
Aid Stations
We’ll have 3 aid stations along the course, stocked with runner-friendly snacks and drinks, including:
Pickles, cookies, chips, fig newtons, assorted candy & pretzels
Hydration: water, Coke, and ginger ale
This is a cupless event—please bring your own hydration flask or cup.
Want to bring a little something to share? Homemade treats or favorite snacks are always welcome at our community table.
Aid Station 1 – Mile 4.8
Aid Station 2 – Mile 11
Aid Station 3 – Start/Finish Line Area
📍 Directions & Parking
Use the following address to access the forest: 5600 Broad River Road, Columbia, SC 29212
Once inside, follow the event signage and volunteers directing you to the parking area adjacent to the gazebo near the Start/Finish line. When you are parking alongside the road please stay on the LEFT side and park directly behind the car in front of you. Parking on both sides of the road is DANGEROUS and we WILL TOW your vehicle to prevent any potential road block for EMS teams.
UDPATES for 2027 Races Coming Soon!
Potential Updates to Course, Location, Time
NEW Swag, Apparel, Medals, and MORE!
Registration set to open for this race on September 1st
The First 100 Participants Receive Custom Race Socks
🏜️ Welcome to the Sandhills Trail & Ultra Festival! 🏕️
Are you ready to run wild in the heart of South Carolina? Lace up and hit the trails at Sesquicentennial State Park in Columbia, SC – where pine forests meet sandy ridges, and every step brings you closer to nature.🌲 Whether you're tackling a single loop or testing your grit in the 30-hour challenge, the Sandhills Trail Race has something for every trail runner.
Distance Options
🏃♀️ 7.5-Mile Fun Loop – One lap of sweet singletrack through forest and lakeside views.
🏃 25K (2 Laps) – Perfect for those ready to push past comfort and into the challenge zone.
🏃♂️ 50K (4 Laps) – A full day of adventure for ultrarunners craving miles and memories.
🌙 30-Hour Ultra – How far can you go? Push your limits under sun, stars, and soul.
Why You’ll Love It:
🏞️ Serene lake views & sandy trails beneath towering pines
🏕️ Easy-access personal aid station zone in the open field
💫 Camp overnight or relax between laps – it's your race, your pace
🎶 Chill trail vibes + post-race hangs with fellow dirt-loving runners
🥒 Aid station snacks, cool drinks, and all the good trail feels
🥇 Belt buckles for 100-mile finishers (13 laps)
📍 Location: Sesquicentennial State Park – 9564 Two Notch Rd, Columbia, SC 29223
🕘 Race Start: 9:00 AM (All distances)
📦 Packet Pickup: 1 hour before your race at Shelter #1
🗺️ Course Highlights - COURSE MAP HERE
7.75-mile loop 💫
Soft pine needle-covered singletrack ✅
A few smooth paved sections around the lake 👟
Rolling hills + lake breezes = chef’s kiss 🌬️
Fast, runnable, and beginner-friendly (but the 30-hour? That’s another story 😏)
🚗 Parking Info: You’ll enter the park and head to the lake parking lot near the ranger station. Have a state park pass or bring a few bucks for a day pass. If you’re staying the day or overnight, feel free to pop up a 10x10 near the field by the start/finish.
⛺️ 30-Hour Runners: Limited crew/aid support from 10PM–6AM. Timing continues overnight. Take a nap if needed — we get it 😴. Just leave your chip at the table when you're done.
🍬 Aid Station Snacks May Include: Pickles, cookies, candy, chips, fig newtons, pretzels, water, Coke, and ginger ale. Want something special? Bring it! This is a cupless event, so bring your own hydration gear 🥤
🎉 Whether you're aiming for a PR, your first ultra, or just a fun day in the woods, the Sandhills Trail Race is your ticket to an unforgettable trail experience. Let the sandy paths guide you and the forest fuel your soul 🌳
Race Email Recap
o 7.5 Mile Awards @ 10:30
o 25k Awards @ 12pm
o 50k Awards @ 3pm