Sassafras 8 Mile

🏞️ 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 8th, 2026 (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: rockybottominfo@gmail.com
• 📞 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.

📋 Upstate Race Series Registration Policies & Options

✅ Transfers

• Registered participants may transfer their entry to another person through their RunSignUp profile
• Transfer & Manage Registration HERE

✅ Distance Changes

• Participants may switch to a different race distance (e.g., drop from Half Marathon to 5K).
• Switch Distance & Manage Registration HERE

✅ Club & Referral Discounts

• Join the Upstate Running Club and receive 15% OFF registration.
• Refer 2+ runners and receive $5 OFF.

✅ Race Shirts & Swag

• Race shirts are sold and shipped separately.
• Finisher medals and awards (age group & overall) are not shipped.

✅ Refunds & Deferrals

• No refunds or deferrals will be offered (unless the event sells out).
• If the race sells out, you may request a 50% OFF code for a future Upstate Race Series event.

For more details, visit the official race page.