Sandhills Trail Race Series
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Event overview
The Sandhills Trail & Ultra Festival takes place February 21–22, 2026 at Sesquicentennial State Park, 9564 Two Notch Rd, Columbia, SC 29223. The event is part of the Upstate Race Series and offers multiple trail events over the two days. Registration prices and age discounts are listed for each event and some prices increase after February 1, 2026.
Distances
- 7.5 Mile - one lap of singletrack with lakeside sections
- 25K - two laps of the loop
- 50K - four laps of the loop
- 30-Hour Ultra - continuous running over the 30-hour window
Course and logistics
The loop runs through pine forest and sandy ridges, with soft pine-needle singletrack and some paved sections near the lake. The course crosses campsite areas and features rolling hills and lake views. Parking is at the lake parking lot near the ranger station; park entry fees apply (examples listed: $6 adults; $3.75 SC seniors; $3.50 children 6–15; children 5 and under free). The event is cupless; participants must provide their own hydration gear. Aid stations provide snacks and drinks (examples include pickles, cookies, chips, pretzels, water, Coke, ginger ale). Packet pickup is at Shelter #1 one hour before each race.
Timing and awards
Chip timing with split tracking is used. The 30-hour event continues timing overnight; crew/aid support is limited overnight. Top three overall male and female finishers receive trophies; age group awards are given 1st–3rd across age categories from 0–9 up to 80+. Registration covers park entry and several included items such as a finisher medal and race photos. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
