Light the Trail 5K
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Light the Trail 5K and Fun Run
Light the Trail 5K and 1-Mile Family Fun Run presented by Indigo Advisors & Partners takes place in Clemson’s Patrick Square community on September 17, 2026, with a rain date of September 24, 2026. The event benefits the Green Crescent Trail and the 15×30 campaign to create 15 connected miles of trail across Clemson, Central and Pendleton by 2030.
Distances:
- 5K
- 1 Mile
- Virtual 5K
The in-person 5K follows a 3.1-mile course that begins and ends by the Village Green and loops twice through Patrick Square. The course has a gentle, gradual topography and an elevation range from 721 feet to 825 feet. Pershing Avenue at Issaqueena Trail will be closed to traffic during the race; neighborhood entrances at Keller Boulevard and Chapman Hill Road and access to retail parking will remain open.
Event features include professional timing by Upstate Race Series, a post-race community gathering on the Village Green with local food, drinks, music and family activities, awards, a costume contest and raffle prizes. Local businesses listed include Sunnyside Cafe and Kite Hill Brewing Co.
Registration for in-person events opens June 1 and closes September 1; fees are $25 for the 5K and $10 for the 1-mile fun run. Virtual registration opens August 10 and closes September 2; the virtual fee is $15. Packet pickup is scheduled Sept 15-16 at Sunnyside Cafe and Kite Hill Brewing and on race day at the Village Green. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
