Mountains-to-Sea Trail 50K Challenge
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Mountains-to-Sea Trail 12M & 50K Challenge - Event
The Mountains-to-Sea Trail 12M & 50K Challenge takes place on April 12, 2026. This is the 17th annual running of the event. The race follows the Mountains-to-Sea Trail (MST) through the woods around Falls Lake in Raleigh, NC. The course is out-and-back on the MST and is located within Segment 10 between mile markers 59 and 74.
Distances
- 12 miles
- 50 kilometers
Logistics and course details
Both races start and finish at Blue Jay Point County Park. 50K participants park at Blue Jay Point County Park; 12M participants park at Barton’s Creek Boat Ramp and are shuttled to and from the race start. Shuttles run from 7:15-8:15am to the start and from 10:15am-12:15pm from the finish back to parking. The trail is mostly single-track and includes roots, rocks, quick turns, logs, and possible water crossings. Aid stations and crew access points are located at roughly three-mile intervals and provide water, Tailwind electrolyte drink, GU gels, snacks, and basic first aid. Drop bags are provided for 50K runners and left at the turn-around; 12M runners may leave a bag at the finish. Restrooms and porta-jons are available at the park and at the 50K turn-around at Falls Lake Dam. Time limits: 50K - 8 hours; 12M - 3.5 hours. Packet pickup is available the day before and on race morning. Awards include a finisher award for all finishers and podium awards for overall and masters categories. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.