Brevard, North Carolina · Saturday, November 21, 2026
The The Bracken is a 7.5 miles, 25k, 50k, and ultra event held on Saturday, November 21, 2026. It is located in Brevard, North Carolina.
SOUTH CAROLINA TRAIL RUNNERS
Runners and families are invited to enjoy the great outdoors on the doorstep of the Blue Ridge Mountains in northwest South Carolina. The scenic 5k course is a great for novice trail runners and experienced racers alike. The single track trails meander along and across scenic Carrick Creek from the nature center as you
climb toward Pinnacle Mountain. After a short climb, the 5k runners will race downhill, looping back toward the start finish line.
Up for more of a challenge? The 15k race course, which is currently closer to a17K, will test the most seasoned trail runners. It follows the same route as the 5k for the first two miles. However, the 15k course climbs nearly 2000 feet over the first 5 miles. You will struggle to make it over several gaps and reach the race’s high point of Pinnacle Mountain. As you descend you will be rewarded with spectacular views from Bald Rock and other overlooks. More stream crossings, gnarly roots and jagged rocks will keep you on your toes as you wind your way back down the valley toward the finish. All racers will welcome the sight of the finish line where there will be plenty of food and ice cold drinks to replenish your body after a tough run. And, receive our super soft shirts and finishers awards will be provided to all runners.
Event details and schedule
Saturday, August 9th
Don't forget your $6.00 entry fee into the park at the front gate. We love our SC parks!
6:30am: Race Day Registration and packet pick-up at The Pinnacle Pavilion, formerly known as The Barn
7:30 am: 15K start time
7:35 am: 5K start time
Awards for First, Second and Third place overall winners.
First place Age group awards.
Please enter park at the West Gate and turn left at the Country Store, driving past the start/finish line
to park at the Pinnacle Pavilion.
We're excited to present the Twilight Trail 5k at Kanuga, Saturday, August 8th, 2026!
The Twilight Trail 5K is a golden-hour trail race at the Kanuga Conference Center designed to welcome runners of all abilities. Featuring a thoughtfully designed 5K course with mixed surfaces and gentle elevation changes, this event offers an approachable introduction to trail running while remaining engaging for experienced trail runners.
You're invited to come just for the trail race or make a full weekend of it at Kanuga. After the finish, runners can enjoy healthy food, relax by a bonfire (weather permitting), and spend the evening connecting with others in a laid-back, community-forward environment.
Kanuga Trail & Tri Weekend Challenge!
Make a full weekend of it and participate in both the Twilight Trail 5K, Saturday, August 8th, and the Kanuga Triathlon, Sunday, August 9th! Weekend Challenge participants receive finisher medals for both events, along with special recognition celebrating their commitment and versatility across the weekend, and will also be awarded a Nomadix-style performance towel!
Before you sign up for the Kanuga Twilight Trail 5k: Sign up for BOTH the Twilight Trail 5k at Kanuga and the Kanuga Triathlon at the same time through the link below and receive a discount!
KANUGA TRAIL & TRI
WEEKEND CHALLENGE SIGN UP
Jones Gap Half Marathon – A Scenic Journey Through the Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area 🌲
The Upstate Race Series invites you to the breathtaking Jones Gap State Park for the Annual Jones Gap Half Marathon! Get ready for an unforgettable 13.1-mile adventure through one of South Carolina’s most serene natural settings 🌿. This year’s course takes you on an awe-inspiring route that showcases the stunning Rainbow Falls 🌈, a section of the Rim of the Gap Trail 🌄, and the iconic Little Pinnacle Mountain 🏔️—all set against the backdrop of the Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area.
Jones Gap State Park offers a peaceful retreat deep within the mountains 🏞️. Nestled within 13,000 acres of pristine woodlands 🌳, the park is part of the larger Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area, which connects with Caesar’s Head State Park. The trails here invite you to explore the beauty of nature 🍃, with connections to the Foothills Trail and Palmetto Trail—two of the most beloved hiking paths in South Carolina 🥾. Along the way, you’ll pass Rainbow Falls, experience the rush of the Middle Saluda River 🌊, and be immersed in a wilderness that feels both untamed and timeless.
As you journey through this incredible landscape, you’ll be treated to the sights of waterfalls 💦, miles of untouched hiking trails 🛤️, and a variety of wildlife 🦅. The rugged terrain will challenge you, while the natural beauty will keep you moving forward with awe and inspiration.
Race Day Details
What: Jones Gap Half Marathon 🏃♂️
When: Race starts at 8:00 AM ⏰
Where: River Falls Lodge (just outside Jones Gap State Park) 🏕️
Address: River Falls Lodge Rd, Marietta, SC 29661 📍
Packet Pickup: River Falls Lodge (Start/Finish Line) @ 7:00 AM 🎽
Course Map: Strava Course Map - HERE
With a total elevation gain of 2,000 feet ⛰️, the course begins with a stretch of road leading into Jones Gap before it ascends onto a series of challenging single-track trails 🏞️. Prepare for stunning views, including Rainbow Falls 🌈💦, and a climb to Little Pinnacle Mountain 🏔️. The trail’s breathtaking beauty and the uphill climbs will test your endurance 💪, but the scenery will make every step worthwhile 🌄.
Parking & Address
Runners can park at River Falls Lodge Rd, Marietta, SC 29661 🚗. We recommend carpooling to reduce congestion 🚙. Packet pickup will also take place at this location 📦.
Aid Stations
There will be ONLY 2 aid stations at Mile 2 and Mile 11
Available items may include: pickles 🥒, cookies 🍪, chips 🥨, assorted candy 🍬, fig newtons 🍪, and pretzels 🥨. Hydration options: water 💧, coke 🥤, and ginger ale 🥤. Cup-less Event: Please bring your own hydration vessel 🏞️. We also accept aid station donations of food items you’d like to see at the race! 🍫
Prepare for a day filled with scenic beauty 🌿, a challenging course 🏃♀️, and the spirit of adventure 🌟. The Jones Gap Half Marathon is the perfect opportunity to connect with nature 🌲 while testing your endurance 💪.
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 Mountain’s Challenge
So, you wish to walk among the clouds? ☁️ Then lace up, for this journey takes you over the mighty backs of Pinnacle Mountain and the legendary Table Rock, two of South Carolina’s tallest guardians of stone. 🗻
These trails? They ain't gentle. They're steep, rocky, and relentless—but also stunningly beautiful. 🌄 Every switchback, every climb, every gasping moment rewards you with panoramic views most only dream of. And when your legs tremble at the summit, the mountains whisper: You are strong. You are worthy.
🥾 Why You’ll Love (and Respect) This Race
🐻 Bear Crawl 25k – One brutal loop
🐐 Foothills 50k – Two soul-shaping laps
🪨 16,000 feet of elevation change
🏔️ Summits of Pinnacle & Table Rock
🌲 A tight-knit tribe of trail runners to share the journey with
Race Day Details
📍 Where: Table Rock State Park – Use West Gate Road
📆 When: March 6th, 2027 – Both races start at 8:00am sharp
🏕️ Start/Finish & Packet Pickup: Pinnacle Pavilion (90 min prior)
View the COURSE MAP HERE
🏕️ Stay a While, Will Ya?
Table Rock is a gem of the Southeast—3,000 acres of rugged beauty, peaceful lakes, and cozy cabins. Make a weekend of it! 🏞️ So… are ya ready to Conquer the Rock?
🧗♂️ Come climb with us.
🔥 Come suffer with us.
🏔️ Come rise with us.
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
Sassafras Mountain 8-Mile Challenge🌄
Conquer the Climb. Take in the View. 🌲🏃♂️
Ready to rise to the challenge? The Sassafras Mountain 8-Mile Challenge is an epic race to the highest point in South Carolina. With steep climbs, stunning views, and a fast trail descent, this race blends grit with grandeur—perfect for seasoned runners and bold adventurers alike.
Race Overview🚩
Start Line: Rocky Bottom Retreat Center
Course: A steep & winding road climb leading to the summit of Sassafras Mountain, followed by a scenic trail descent back toward the finish.
Elevation Gain: Expect a significant climb—this is a true mountain challenge.
Course Map: [Click here for Strava Map]
What Makes This Race Unique🌟
🥵 A demanding uphill road section to Sassafras' iconic summit
🌄 Panoramic Blue Ridge Mountain views at the peak
🌲 Beautiful, varied trail descent with natural terrain
🐐Ideal for trail runners, mountain goats, and nature lovers
🌿A one-of-a-kind experience in South Carolina’s Upstate wilderness
Race Day Details🎉
Date: March 7th, 2027 (Sunday)
Time: Race begins at 9:00 AM
Location: Rocky Bottom Retreat & Conference Center
Address: 123 Hancock Rd, Sunset, SC 29685
Packet Pickup: begins at 8am
Aid Station: No on-course aid station. Water available at the Start/Finish line
Post-Race Pancakes: Celebrate your summit with fresh hot pancakes and mountain air 🥞⛰️
Awards: Top finishers will be recognized after the race at the summit gathering
Accommodations
Looking to make it a mountain getaway?
🏕️ Stay the Weekend at Rocky Bottom
🏕️ Primitive camping spots available
🛏️ Cabins with multiple bedrooms on-site
💧 Water access & bathroom facilities
Reservations:
📧 Email: [email protected]
📞 Call: 803-331-3344 (Ask for Thom Spittle)
Capture the Moment📸
From summit selfies to finish line triumphs, this race is packed with photo-worthy views. Be sure to bring your camera—or your crew—to capture the magic of the mountains!
Ready to Race to the Top?
Don’t miss your chance to be part of this epic climb and unforgettable descent. Sign up today for the Sassafras Mountain 8-Mile Challenge and experience the thrill of running above it all.