Dark Horse Trail Series 26.2
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Dark Horse Trail Series (26.2 · 13.1 · 10K)
The Dark Horse Trail Series is scheduled for August 14, 2027 at the Tryon Equestrian Center in Mill Spring, North Carolina. The event uses a single 6.5 mile loop through the working horse park; runners complete the loop multiple times depending on the chosen distance.
The course mixes wide packed dirt paths, single-track trails, and open meadows, and gains about 600 feet of elevation per loop. All distances share the same terrain and will pass the start/finish area and the aid station on each lap.
Distances
- Marathon: 26.2 miles
- Half Marathon: 13.1 miles
- 10K: 10 kilometers
There is one aid station located at the start/finish area that is reached on every lap. Available snacks include pickles, cookies, chips, Fig Newtons, and pretzels. Hydration options listed are water, Coke, and ginger ale. The event is cup-less; participants should bring their own hydration vessel.
Entry details published by the organizer list registration opening September 1, 2026 and closing May 1, 2027, with fees of $50 for the marathon, $45 for the half, and $30 for the 10K. Parking is charged $5 as part of registration and covers event entrance. Packet pickup is at the start/finish area near the General Store tent and opens one hour before each event.
All participants receive a custom bib, chip timing with live results, a finisher medal, and event-themed items including a custom race tattoo and a race sticker. Top three overall male and female finishers receive trophies; age group awards are given for first through third in 15 age categories. The marathon has a six hour time limit and requires the last lap to be started before the five hour mark.
Additional notes: dogs are allowed on leash, headphones are permitted, there are porta-johns at the start/finish and on course, a grass area is available for gear check, cell service is limited, and the organizer does not offer refunds or deferrals while transfers and distance changes are allowed. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
