Great Springs Trail Race - San Marcos
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Great Springs Trail Race - San Marcos
Great Springs Trail Race takes place at Purgatory Creek Natural Area in San Marcos on January 23, 2027. The event includes multiple trail distances and a youth mile that is untimed and awards a finisher medal.
Distances
- 10K
- 13.1 miles
- 26.2 miles
- Youth 1 mile
The main route is a well marked 13.1 mile loop. The 10K course turns around at the first aid station called Dreamers. Trails include single track, wider fast sections, and rocky limestone segments, and the finish features a slight downhill section.
Course markings use orange caution tape, yellow arrows, and confidence markers; signs at junctions indicate which way for each distance. Markings include reflectors for dark hours. The event is cupless so participants should bring a cup or bottle; collapsible cups are available for purchase at packet pickup. Littering can lead to disqualification and participants are asked to follow Leave No Trace practices.
There are three on-course aid stations including the start/finish. All aid stations provide water and Tailwind at minimum; the main aid stations also offer snacks and fruit. Drop bags are allowed at the Flow aid station which is accessible from the Upper Purgatory Trailhead; crew access and parking there are limited.
Chip timing is used with ankle straps picked up race morning and chips must be worn on the ankle and returned if a runner leaves the course. Pacers are not allowed. Parking at the lower trailhead is limited; additional parking is available at the Hays County Elections Office and Hernandez Elementary School. The event does not offer camping. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
