Run in Polk County, North Carolina | 2026-2027

Run for Outreach - Tryon Half Marathon and Fall for the Foothills 5K [tryonrunners.blogspot.com]
Sat, Nov 15, 2025

5k Half Marathon Run
NC 9, Polk County, North Carolina, 28756, United States
OpenStreetMap Google Maps
Arctic Dash [runsignup.com]
Tue, Feb 24, 2026 at 6:00 PM

Description

Arctic Dash - Kids Winter Track Challenge

Kick off the 2026 with fast feet and big hearts! The Arctic Dash is a fun, high-energy indoor track event open to Pre-K through 8th graders, designed to keep...

Arctic Dash - Kids Winter Track Challenge

Kick off the 2026 with fast feet and big hearts! The Arctic Dash is a fun, high-energy indoor track event open to Pre-K through 8th graders, designed to keep kids active, smiling, and on track all winter long.

Participants can choose from 200m (five years and under), 400m, 800m, or 1-mile races, all held on the indoor track at Tryon International Equestrian Center - do one or all three! Whether you are new to racing or ready to conquer a personal best, this event is all about movement, community, and supporting each other.

Registration is completely free. We simply ask each participant to bring at least two canned goods to support Thermal Belt Outreach, who serves Polk County families and individuals that need assistance with day-to-day necessities such as food, heat, and housing. It's a great way for kids to race with purpose and give back to families in need.

Come for the fun, stay for the encouragement, and leave with warm hearts - even in the Arctic! Let's dash, give, and make a difference together.

1 Miles Run
25 International Blvd, Polk County, North Carolina, 28756, United States
OpenStreetMap Google Maps
OUTLAST BLUE RIDGE [texasoutlawrunning.com] [Register at runsignup.com]
Sat, Mar 21, 2026 at 8:00 AM

Description

What Is OUTLAST?

OUTLAST is a 6-hour trail endurance challenge where runners complete a 5K every hour, on the hour. Each lap must be finished within the hour to stay in the event. If you finish...

What Is OUTLAST?

OUTLAST is a 6-hour trail endurance challenge where runners complete a 5K every hour, on the hour. Each lap must be finished within the hour to stay in the event. If you finish early, you rest until the next round. Miss a lap, and you’re out.

Complete all six rounds, and you OUTLAST.

This isn't just about speed — it's about pacing, discipline, and mental grit. Whether you're trying to survive all six or win your division, the challenge is the same: show up each hour, push your limits, and stay in it.

Each course is trail-based, with natural terrain, elevation, and unpredictable conditions. You’ll have time between rounds to recover, refuel, and refocus — but not much.

What You Earn:

4 laps = “Grit Earned” patch

5 laps = “Survivor” patch

6 laps = Premium “OUTLAST” medal

All participants receive a premium OUTLAST Tee.

Top male and female with the fastest combined 5K times at each event win the 1st Place OUTLAST award.

Finishers are ranked on the national leaderboard—and the fastest runner across all OUTLAST 6-hour events will be crowned National Champion and take home $1,000.

The 1st Place Male and Female 6-hour champions from each city will earn a spot in the Outlast Championship, where they’ll compete against the best of the best at the end of the Tour, and the 1st place male and female winners take home $1000 each. (This is separate from the national leaderboard prize money.)

By the end of the tour, the top 100 best times nationally will be invited to also compete in the Outlast Championship.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Do I have to run all 6 laps?

Nope. Run as many as you can. If you complete 4 or 5, you'll still earn a patch. Only those who finish all 6 get the OUTLAST medal and leaderboard ranking.

What happens if I don’t finish a lap in time?

You're out. The next lap starts at the top of the next hour, and only those who completed the last lap on time can continue.

How is the race timed?

Each 5K is timed individually. If you complete all 6, your combined time counts toward the local win and national leaderboard.

Are these trail races or road?

Every OUTLAST race is on trail terrain — dirt, rocks, roots, and elevation. Sometimes some pavement and gravel.

Can I walk?

Yes, as long as you finish the 5K within the hour. But some courses are rugged, and time can sneak up on you.

Are there aid stations?

Yes. There will be water, basic hydration, and snacks at the basecamp/loop start. This is a cupless event — bring your own bottle or hydration system.

What should I bring?

Trail shoes, hydration system, layers (weather dependent), fuel between laps, and grit.

Can I setup a tent?

Absolutely, bring your own aid station/tent setup.

Is OUTLAST for beginners?

Yes — if you're mentally tough. You don’t need to be fast, just consistent and ready to suffer a little.

How do I win?

If you finish all 6 laps and have the fastest combined time, you win your division (male/female). Winners are also added to the national leaderboard for a shot at the $1,000 national prize & title.

18 Miles Gravel Run Trail Walk
25 International Blvd, Polk County, North Carolina, 28756, United States
OpenStreetMap Google Maps
Noble Dog Fest 2026 [runsignup.com] [Register at runsignup.com]
Sat, Apr 11, 2026 at 9:00 AM
Description
Free admission for the whole family... including the family dog!

Noble Dog Fest, sponsored by Noble Dog Hotel & Lodge since 2019, welcomes over 1,000 dog lovers from 25 states! Arrive at Tryon Resort...
Free admission for the whole family... including the family dog!

Noble Dog Fest, sponsored by Noble Dog Hotel & Lodge since 2019, welcomes over 1,000 dog lovers from 25 states! Arrive at Tryon Resort & enjoy music, food, Vendor Village with over 20 local shops, & dog sport workshops for your pup to try! You don't wanna miss this!
- Vendor Village 20+ local shops!
- Music by DJ Kels
- Food & Beverage Trucks
- Noble Nessie's Biergarten
Add-on Festival Activities!

Register at the Link provided or simply add on the following activities to your Noble Dog Fest ticket!
- UltiMutt Race-Dog + Human 5k Obstacle Race
- Paint ur Pet Workshop, led by Jessica Brush
- Try it! Dog Yoga, led by Deb of Sunbelly Cafe -add onto your ticket
- Try it! SwiftPaws Lure Coursing - add on to your ticket
- Try it! WCERA Canine Escape Room - add on to your ticket
- Try it! Canine Conditioning/Agility - add on to your ticket
- Try it! Herding Instict Tests with On the Lamb
Other Drop-In Activities:
- Dogs & Drinks Mixer: Friday, April 10 @ 6pm @ Silver Spoon Saloon (onsite)
- 9am-2pm: Palmetto State Disc Dog Demos & Club Intro w/ Lucas Croft
- 9am-2pm: NACC Canicross Harness/Gear Fittings - Drop-In
- 9am-2pm: Pup Caricatures! w/ local artists
LODGING TIPS:

Make UltiMutt Race your weekend getaway! Tryon Resort features 1,600 acres of nature trails, 6 onsite restaurants, 20+ boutique shops, family entertainment, and more! The property features a variety of onsite lodging options:

To make these reservations & receive the discounted rate, must CALL: 828-863-1103.
- RV park spaces
- UltiMutt Discount: 10% Off, 2 night minimum stay, pet fees waived for: 1-5 bedroom Cabins, Overmountain Lodge, Stablehouse Inn
To Book Discounted Rates, Must CALL: 828-863-1103 & mention you're an "UltiMutt Guest"

Offsite Recommendations:

-Our #1 Choice: 4 Paws Kingdom & Dog Campground-15 miles

-Emberglow Outdoor Resort - 7.8 miles

-Town & Country Inn Suites-Spindale - 9 miles

-Hampton Inn & Suites – 15 miles
Run Trail
25 International Blvd, Polk County, North Carolina, 28756, United States
OpenStreetMap Google Maps
UltiMutt Race @ Tryon Resort [ultimuttrace.com] [Register at runsignup.com]
Sat, Apr 11, 2026 at 9:00 AM
Description
UltiMutt Race 2026: Saturday, April 11 @ Tryon Resort, Mill Spring, NC.

Celebrate our ancient friendship with dogs while building a bond with your dog that will last a lifetime!

UltiMutt Race & Noble...
UltiMutt Race 2026: Saturday, April 11 @ Tryon Resort, Mill Spring, NC.

Celebrate our ancient friendship with dogs while building a bond with your dog that will last a lifetime!

UltiMutt Race & Noble Dog Fest, (sponsored by Noble Dog Hotel & Lodge, ) is a 5k obstacle race & festival designed by canine agility & fitness pros to challenge a dog & owner team over 17+ obstacles at your pace with our Competitive & Fun Run options!

Running UltiMutt = Saving Lives! 10% race fees & 100% donations are given to Greenville County Animal Care, the largest open intake shelter in the Carolinas!

Start Line Description: Dogs are separated by barriers in 3 lanes, 3 runners start every 30 sec intervals to eliminate crowding/bottlenecking on the course. Event is fully outdoors with ample space to distance.

Noble Dog Fest: Saturday 9am-2pm: (free admission for the whole family, including the family dog!)

-Food & Beverage Trucks

-Noble Nessie's Craft Biergarten

-Music & Champion Awards Ceremony

-Vendor Village 20+ local shops!

-Photo Booths & Pup Caricatures

Pre-Register for Festival Activities: Here
- Paint ur Pet Workshop, led by Jessica Brush
- Try it! Dog Yoga, led by Deb of Sunbelly Cafe
- Try it! SwiftPaws Lure Coursing
- Try it! WCERA Canine Escape Room
- Try it! Canine Conditioning/Agility
- Try it! Herding Instict Tests with On the Lamb
Other Activities:

Dogs & Drinks Mixer: Friday, April 10 @ 6pm @ Silver Spoon Saloon (onsite)

9am-2pm: Mutts & Monsters Disc Dog Demos & Club Intro w/ Lucas Croft

9am-2pm: NACC Canicross Harness/Gear Fittings - Drop-In

LODGING: To make these reservations & receive the discounted rate, must CALL: 828-863-1103.

Make UltiMutt Race your weekend getaway! Tryon Resort features 1,600 acres of nature trails, 6 onsite restaurants, 20+ boutique shops, family entertainment, and more!

The property features a variety of onsite lodging options:
- 50 tent camping spaces-dry - Available NOW until sold out!
- RV park spaces
- UltiMutt Discount: 10% Off, 2 night minimum stay, pet fees waived for: 1-5 bedroom Cabins, Overmountain Lodge, Stablehouse Inn
- To Book Discounted Rates, Must CALL: 828-863-1103 & mention you're an "UltiMutt Guest"
See Nearby Hotels, AirBnBs, Glampgrounds/Campgrounds, etc. --> Link to Google Nearby Hotels:

-4 Paws Kingdom & Dog Campground-15 miles

-Emberglow Outdoor Resort - 7.8 miles

-Town & Country Inn Suites-Spindale - 9 miles

-Hampton Inn & Suites – 15 miles

Event Pricing

*Discounts for children under 15, first responders/military, & for referring 2 friends who register with your code.
- $85 -Currently 25% Off final price
- Increases to $95 when spots run out.
- Increases to $115 on race day.
(Free Parking onsite)

What do I get when I run the UltiMutt Race?

Finishers Receive: Sponsored Race Photos, Commemorative Finisher medal, collectible iron-on patch unique to the year, & access to Noble Dog Fest!

Race Options
- Competitive Wave: (30 squats to skip/fail an obstacle)
- Awarded: Alpha Male & Alpha Female w/ Large Dog (36+ lbs.)
- Awarded: Alpha Male & Alpha Female w/ Small Dog (up to 35lbs.)
- Fun Run Wave: (can skip any obstacle)
- Non-Timed 5k Fun Run/Walk!
5k Fun Run Run Trail Walk
Polk County, North Carolina, 28756, United States
OpenStreetMap Google Maps
Harmon Field Half Marathon & Morris Fun Run [runsignup.com]
Sat, Apr 25, 2026 at 8:00 AM
Description
We are so excited to announce the inaugural Harmon Field Half Marathon & Morris Fun Run! After Harmon Field was devastated by Hurricane Helene in 2024, it is now repaired and back open! We are...
We are so excited to announce the inaugural Harmon Field Half Marathon & Morris Fun Run! After Harmon Field was devastated by Hurricane Helene in 2024, it is now repaired and back open! We are excited to welcome back this much loved, scenic, out-and-back, 13.1-mile race through the beautiful Hunting Country of Polk County, NC. Our hope for this inaugural race is that it brings together runners, walkers, spectators, and families for a day of fitness, fun, and community impact. The proceeds of this race will support Harmon Field special projects.

Our unique race course has been loved by runners for many years. We hope you will join us this spring for a new perspective on this beautiful route! We have also added a fun addition to this race, a Morris Fun Run! This fun run will be 2 miles and will take in the beauty of Harmon Field. Perfect for kids and families to come out and enjoy the day! Morris is the beloved Tryon Horse and can be seen at the intersection of Trade Street and Pacolet Street in Downtown Tryon! Don't forget to stop by and take a selfie with him while you are in town!

The Harmon Field Half Marathon has a 4-hour cut-off time (8:00am start-12:00pm cut off).

Harmon Field Half Marathon Awards Age Divisions:

Top Male and Female in Overall and Masters, and Top 3 Male and Female in each age group.
- Overall Male and Female
- Masters Male and Female
- 12 and under
- 13-16
- 17-19
- 20-29
- 30-34
- 35-39
- 40-44
- 45-49
- 50-54
- 55-59
- 60-64
- 65-69
- 70-79
- 80+
You can find our course map for the Harmon Field Half Marathon on Strava HERE!
2 Miles 13.1 Miles Fun Run Half Marathon Run Walk
117 Harmon Field Road, Polk County, North Carolina, 28782, United States
OpenStreetMap Google Maps

Coon Dog Day 5k [runsignup.com]
Sat, Jul 11, 2026 at 8:00 AM

Description

Coon Dog Day 2025 will be held in Saluda, NC on July 12th and the 5K will be better than ever!

PACKET PICKUP, Friday July 11: 🌭Free hotdog at packet pickup! Please pick up your race bib and tshirt at...

Coon Dog Day 2025 will be held in Saluda, NC on July 12th and the 5K will be better than ever!

PACKET PICKUP, Friday July 11: 🌭Free hotdog at packet pickup! Please pick up your race bib and tshirt at the Saluda Inn at 229 Greenville St., Saluda, 5-8 pm. Follow the packet pick-up signs.

SATURDAY MORNING, July 12: New Race Day Checkin Location- Looking Glass Realty at 108 East Main. St, beside the post office.

The start/finish line is on Main Street. Note: All registration will be online through the runsignup.com page. No paper forms for late/ walkup registration, so bring a phone. You can register until the race starts with a phone.

PARKING- 5K parking is available only until 9:30am at the First Baptist Church, the Episcopal Church of the Transfiguration and Saluda United Methodist Church for the race only. If you want to stay for Coon Dog Day, please move your car out of those lots by 9:30am (the shuttle will bring you from the festival parking lot at that time). Parking is also available at the Saluda Elementary School back (bus) Parking Lot on Seminary Street (short walk to start line on Main Street) and there's no rush to leave the school lot.

The Coon Dog Day 5K is hosted by and is a fundraiser for Saluda Elementary School. The run begins in McCreery Park beside Main Street at 8am and follows the traditional Coon Dog Day 5k route.

T-shirts guaranteed if registered by Memorial Day, Monday May 26th.

Chip timing is back for the 5K for all participants to track their time for this annual festival run!

And new for 2025- Really Sweet🍯and Locally Made Awards 🐝! Award Categories: 9 and under, 10-14, 15-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69 and 70+.

The KIDS' Fun Run with clock timing and a new route for the kids is back.

Plan to stay for the daylong festival of crafts, food, music and quirky small town fun.

We sure do appreciate our 2025 Sponsors. We couldn't do this without our:

Top Dogs- Sandy Bee Mine Honey Company, Looking Glass Realty and Upland Orchard

Big Dogs- Don Mintz Builders. Saluda Outfitters, Mountain Sky Builders, Stepp Ditching, Adventure Cycles, Solstice Construction, Wakey Monkey, the Orchard Inn and the Saluda Inn.

Porch Pups- Jim Carson Gallery/Studio, Carolina Cottage Guest House and Kevin Burnett

Proceeds from the Coon Dog Day 5K and Kid’s Fun Run support Saluda Elementary School, with a primary focus on literacy and other educational resources that enhance teaching and student success.

1k 5k Run
Mccreery Park Corner Of Main Street And Greenville Street In, Polk County, North Carolina, 28773, United States
OpenStreetMap Google Maps
Dark Horse Trail Series (26.2 - 13.1 - 10k) [upstateraceseries.com] [Register at runsignup.com]
Sat, Aug 22, 2026 at 8:00 AM
Description
🐎 Gallop Through the Trails at the Dark Horse Trail Race! 🌲

Giddy up, runners! The Dark Horse Trail Marathon & Half Marathon at the Tryon International Equestrian Center in beautiful Tryon, North...
🐎 Gallop Through the Trails at the Dark Horse Trail Race! 🌲

Giddy up, runners! The Dark Horse Trail Marathon & Half Marathon at the Tryon International Equestrian Center in beautiful Tryon, North Carolina is the perfect opportunity for you to feel the wind in your hair as you race through stunning trails set against the backdrop of rolling hills and lush forests 🏞️. Whether you're a seasoned trail runner or a newcomer, this race promises an unforgettable adventure through a unique blend of athleticism and the natural beauty that only the Foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains can offer 🌳.

Imagine galloping through wide dirt paths, winding your way through single-track trails, and trotting across grassy meadows 🌾. Along the way, you'll take in breathtaking views, and if you're lucky, you might spot a fellow horse galloping by as you run through the very grounds that host the world's grandest equestrian events 🏇. This is the place where nature and sport collide, creating a race day experience like no other. Whether you're chasing that marathon glory or just here for the half marathon fun, each step brings you closer to the heart of this magical, four-legged world.

After crossing the finish line, enjoy the post-race festivities alongside your fellow runners and equestrian fans 🎉. The Tryon International Equestrian Center is always buzzing with energy, and you can celebrate your victory with food 🍔, drinks 🍻, and live music 🎶 while taking in the beautiful atmosphere of this renowned venue. It’s not just about the race—it’s about connecting with the land, nature, and the incredible spirit of adventure 🐾.

Event Details

When: All Races Start at 8:00 AM ⏰

Where: Tryon Equestrian Center

Address: 25 International Blvd, Mill Spring, NC 28756 📍

Packet Pickup: Will be held at the Start/Finish Line starting 1 hour before your event 🏁.

Course Cutoff: For the marathon: Runners have 6 hours to complete but must start last lap before 5 hours

Parking: When you enter the Equestrian Center, stay to the left to enter the main gate 🏇. Let them know you're here for the race, and follow the driveway to the left, which will lead you to participant parking, right by the start/finish line next to the General Store 🚗

Amenities located within eye sight of the start/finish line
- Breakfast Diner 🍳
- Coffee Shop ☕
- Convenient Store 🛒
- Bars/Restaurants 🍽️
- Indoor Bathrooms 🚻
Course Map: Strava Course Map - HERE🗺️

The course consists of a 6.5-mile loop that meanders through the equestrian center with a mixture of wide packed dirt paths, single-track trails, and meadows 🐴. The course has 600 feet of elevation gain per loop, offering you a steady challenge as you gallop through this beautiful terrain 🏞️.

Aid Station

There is one aid station at the start and finish line 🏁.

You'll find pickles 🥒, cookies 🍪, chips 🥨, fig newtons, and pretzels 🥨.

Hydration will include water 💧, coke 🥤, and ginger ale 🥤.

Cup-less Event: Please bring your own hydration vessel for use at the aid station 🏅.

Feel free to donate any homemade snacks or supplies you'd like to see at the aid station 🍪.

Staging Area - Camping & Personal Aid Stations

We offer camping for participants and their crews during registration ⛺. There’s no water or power, but you'll have plenty of space to spread out next to the course and enjoy the serenity of nature 🌲. Drop bags can be placed at the start/finish line area 👜. Please label your drop bag with your name and bib number to ensure it’s waiting for you at the finish line when you’re done 🏁.

Don’t miss the chance to trot, gallop, and race through the scenic beauty of the Tryon Equestrian Center. This is your opportunity to experience the thrill of the Dark Horse Trail Race! 🏇🐴🌿
10k 13.1 Miles 26.2 Miles Indoor Run Trail
25 International Blvd, Polk County, North Carolina, 28756, United States
OpenStreetMap Google Maps
Ache Around the Lake [runsignup.com]
Sat, Oct 10, 2026 at 8:00 AM
Description
Join the excitement of the 20th Annual Ache Around the Lake, a yearly running event that unfolds across the picturesque landscapes of Lake Lanier, spanning both Landrum, SC, and Tryon, NC. This...
Join the excitement of the 20th Annual Ache Around the Lake, a yearly running event that unfolds across the picturesque landscapes of Lake Lanier, spanning both Landrum, SC, and Tryon, NC. This unique race allows participants to traverse the scenic beauty of two states in a challenging 8K course, covering 4.97 miles of hilly terrain. While not ideal for setting personal records due to its undulating nature, the course promises a thrilling and demanding experience that will put both seasoned and novice runners to the test.

The Ache Around the Lake race kicks off with an initial descent, setting the stage for a journey filled with challenging gradients. Brace yourself for GRUNT #1, the steepest hill at just over 1/4 mile into the race, offering an early test of endurance. While this may be the most intense incline, subsequent hills will keep your legs engaged, creating a demanding course that even the most resilient runners may find themselves walking. Aid stations are strategically placed at mile 2 and again around mile 4, providing crucial support to participants facing the unique challenges of this scenic yet demanding race around Lake Lanier.

Ache Around the Lake isn't just a run; it's an immersive experience that takes you through the heart of two states, showcasing the natural beauty of the surroundings while pushing your physical limits. With its challenging hills and well-placed aid stations, this annual event is a must for those seeking both a scenic adventure and a test of their running prowess.

What: Ache Around the Lake 8k, 2 Mile, and Kids Fun Run

When: Saturday, October 10th

Time:
- Ache Around the Lake - 8am
- Ouch 2 Mile - 8:05am
- Kids 1 Mile Fun Run - 8:15am
Where: Tryon Antique Mall & Marketplace Start/Finish around Lake Lanier

Address: 1005 S. Trade Street, Tryon, NC 28782

Packet Pickup
- Race Day Only - Starting at 6:30am in the parking lot of the Tryon Antique Mall (1005 S. Trade Street, Tryon, NC) across the street from El Sureno Mexican Restaurant on Hwy 176.
Post Race Eats - We will have enjoyable treats after the race.

Awards
- We will be announcing awards at 9:15 am this year. Official results can be found online later in the day. You can sign up for results notifications via text or email during registration. All awards are by GUN TIME - Mass start per race.**
- THE OUCH 2 MILE AWARDS - Top 1 Overall Male & Female
- ACHE AROUND THE LAKE 8K AWARDS
- Top 3 Overall Male & Female
- Top 3 Masters Male & Female
- Top 1 Male & Female in age groups
o 14 & under

o 15-19

o 20-29

o 30-39

o 40-49

o 50-59

o 60-69

o 70+
1 Miles 2 Miles 8k Fun Run Run Walk
1005 S. Trade Street, Polk County, North Carolina, 28782, United States
OpenStreetMap Google Maps
Run for Outreach - Tryon Half Marathon and Fall for the Foothills 5K [runsignup.com]
Sat, Nov 14, 2026 at 8:00 AM

Description

After extensive damage to our former venue, Outreach has selected Tryon International for our 14th annual “Run for Outreach” fundraising event, the Tryon Half Marathon and Fall for the Foothills 5K....

After extensive damage to our former venue, Outreach has selected Tryon International for our 14th annual “Run for Outreach” fundraising event, the Tryon Half Marathon and Fall for the Foothills 5K.

Brought to you by our longtime partner Ashworth Financial, this exciting new off-road race offers an invigorating experience at one of the country’s premier equestrian venues. Spanning over 1,600 acres in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Tryon International is home to world-class arenas, stables, and riding trails, many of which serve as the backdrop for the course. This one of a kind trail run blends the energy of a working equestrian center with the stillness of nature in late fall and offers a truly immersive off-road experience.

3.1 Miles 5k 13.1 Miles Half Marathon Run Trail
US 176, Polk County, North Carolina, 28782, United States
OpenStreetMap Google Maps
Semi-Marathon de Tryon [finishers.com] - Facebook
Sun, Nov 22, 2026

5k Half Marathon Marathon Run
Polk County, North Carolina, United States
OpenStreetMap Google Maps

11 running events in Polk County, North Carolina

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