Hells Hills Trail Race
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Event details
The Hells Hills Trail Race takes place on April 4, 2026 at Rocky Hill Ranch in Smithville, Texas (578 FM 153). The event offers multiple distances:
- 50 mile
- 50 km
- 25 km
- 10 km
- 25 km Ruck
- 10 km Ruck
- Youth 1-mile (ages 1-12, untimed)
All races are chip timed. Timing chips are ankle-mounted, picked up at the venue on race morning, and must be worn on the ankle. Results show both gun time and chip time. Top awards include Top 3 male and female and Top Masters (50+). A shirt cutoff is on March 10.
Course, support, and rules
The course uses single-track trails with bridges, stream crossings, pine trees, and areas of wildflowers. Distances are run as looped routes (10 km = 1 lap, 25 km = 1 lap, 50 km = two laps of about 15.5 miles, 50 mile = three laps of about 16.67 miles). Course markings include orange caution tape, yellow arrows, and confidence markers; reflectors are used for dark hours.
Aid station plan includes two full on-course aid stations, the start/finish "Saloon," a self-support station on the far side of the loop, and a short water/snack station positioned on the 10k route. Supplies are placed approximately every 2.8 - 4.5 miles. The event is cupless; runners need a water bottle and collapsible cup to use aid stations.
Ruck division rules specify mandatory weights (20 lb if under 150 lb, 30 lb if over 150 lb), weigh-ins, no trekking poles, and that weight must be carried on the back. Drop bags are allowed at the start/finish area only; no on-course delivery. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
