Jones Gap Trail Half Marathon

🌄 Jones Gap Half Marathon

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.

🌲 Explore Nature

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.

🏞️ Course Experience

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

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 💪.

📜 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 information, visit: Jones Gap Half Marathon.