4 events in Pickens County, South 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.

This USATF-certified race takes place on the scenic Doodle Trail and is flat and fast! It is an out-and-back course beginning and ending at United Wesleyan Church 738 Rice Road Easley SC 29640. The race begins at 8 am and awards will begin at 9 am. All proceeds go to Alabaster House in Easley.

Registration is $30.

Note: If you need to change your shirt selection, go to your profile, select Run for Missions 5k from your races, choose Manage Registration, and click "Giveaway." You can see the shirt size you selected and you can change it there.

Note: Ladies cut runs small. Adult shirts are unisex (men's cut).

AWARDS WILL BE GIVEN FOR THESE CATEGORIES:

Prize for Overall Finisher

• Fastest Male

• Fastest Female

Prize for Top Male and Female Kid

• Fastest 5-12

Prize for Top Male and Female Teenager

• Fastest Teen (13-19)

Prize for Top Dog and Owner

• Fastest Doggo 1-100 (in people years)

Awards for Top Male and Female Finisher in each Age Group

• 20-29

• 30-39

• 40-49

• 50-59

• 60-69

• 70+

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.