Dark Horse Trail Series
Always double-check with the organizer's website! This page may contain affiliate links.
Dark Horse Trail Series : Tryon Equestrian Center, Mill Spring, NC
The Dark Horse Trail Series takes place on August 14, 2027 at Tryon Equestrian Center, 25 International Blvd, Mill Spring, North Carolina. The event offers three trail distances that all use the same loop course.
- 26.2 Miles (Marathon)
- 13.1 Miles (Half Marathon)
- 10K
The course is a 6.5 mile loop that runs through the working equestrian center on a mix of wide packed dirt paths, single-track trails, and open meadows. Each loop gains about 600 feet of elevation. All distances share the same terrain and the same start/finish area, so runners pass the aid station and crowd each lap.
There is one aid station located at the start/finish, offering water, Coke, ginger ale and snacks including pickles, cookies, chips, Fig Newtons, and pretzels. The event is cup-less; runners should bring their own hydration vessel. Parking is charged at $5 as part of registration and covers site entry for the day.
Every finisher receives a medal and race socks; the first 100 sign-ups receive a race tee. Timing uses custom bibs and chip timing with live results and free race photos posted after the event. Top three overall finishers in each gender receive trophies, and 1st–3rd in each of 15 age categories receive age group medals.
Additional notes: dogs are allowed on leash, headphones are permitted, gear can be left on an open grass field at the start/finish, porta-johns are available, cell service is limited, and marathon runners must complete the course within a six hour time limit and start their final lap before the five hour mark. The race supports the Prisma Health Patient Assistance Fund and counts toward several Upstate Race Series standings. Registration opens 2026-09-01 and closes 2027-05-01. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
