🏃♀️ Welcome to the Sandhills Trail & Ultra Festival!
Are you ready to run wild in the heart of South Carolina? Lace up and hit the trails at Sesquicentennial State Park in Columbia, SC – where pine forests meet sandy ridges, and every step brings you closer to nature. Whether you're tackling a single loop or testing your grit in the 30-hour challenge, the Sandhills Trail Race has something for every trail runner.
📏 Distance Options
- 7.5-Mile Fun Loop: One lap of sweet singletrack through forest and lakeside views.
- 25K (2 Laps): Perfect for those ready to push past comfort and into the challenge zone.
- 50K (4 Laps): A full day of adventure for ultrarunners craving miles and memories.
- 30-Hour Ultra: How far can you go? Push your limits under sun, stars, and soul.
❤️ Why You’ll Love It:
- Serene views: Lake views & sandy trails beneath towering pines.
- Easy-access aid: Personal aid station zone in the open field.
- Relax and camp: Camp overnight or relax between laps – it's your race, your pace.
- Chill vibes: Post-race hangs with fellow dirt-loving runners.
📍 Location & Logistics
- Location: Sesquicentennial State Park – 9564 Two Notch Rd, Columbia, SC 29223.
- Race Start: 9:00 AM (All distances).
- Packet Pickup: 1 hour before your race at Shelter #1.
- Parking Info: You’ll enter the park and head to the lake parking lot near the ranger station. Have a state park pass or bring a few bucks for a day pass.
🏞️ Course Highlights
- Loop Distance: 7.75-mile loop.
- Trail Type: Soft pine needle-covered singletrack.
- Paved Sections: A few smooth paved sections around the lake.
- Terrain: Rolling hills + lake breezes = heavenly experience.
⛺️ 30-Hour Runners:
Limited crew/aid support from 10 PM–6 AM. Timing continues overnight. Take a nap if needed — we get it. Just leave your chip at the table when you’re done.
🍪 Aid Station Snacks May Include:
Pickles, cookies, candy, chips, fig newtons, pretzels, water, Coke, and ginger ale. Want something special? Bring it! This is a cupless event, so bring your own hydration gear.
🌲 Join the Adventure:
Whether you're aiming for a PR, your first ultra, or just a fun day in the woods, the Sandhills Trail Race is your ticket to an unforgettable trail experience. Let the sandy paths guide you and the forest fuel your soul.
📜 Upstate Race Series Registration Policies & Options
✅ Transfers
✅ Distance Changes
✅ 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.
🔗 Visit the Race Page
For more information, visit: Sandhills Trail Race