Mountains-to-Sea Trail 50K Challenge

Event

The Mountains-to-Sea Trail 12M & 50K Challenge is the 17th annual trail race held on April 12, 2026 in Durham, North Carolina. The start and finish are at Rolling View State Park. The race follows single-track sections of the Mountains-to-Sea Trail (MST) around Falls Lake.

Distances

• 12-Mile
• 50-KM

Registration opens December 15, 2025. Entry fees listed on the event page are $50 for the 12-mile and $80 for the 50-km.

Course and race services

The course is single-track hiking trail with roots, rocks, quick turns, logs, woodland wildlife, and possible water crossings. Aid stations and crew access points are located approximately every 3 miles and will offer water, electrolyte drink, energy gels, snacks, and basic first aid supplies. The event is cupless; participants are asked to carry their own hydration device. Drop bags are provided for 50K runners at the turn-around and at the finish. Restroom facilities and porta-johns are available at the start/finish and at the 50K turn-around. Parking is available at Rolling View State Park.

Logistics and awards

Pre-race packet pickup is scheduled for the day before the race at Bull City Running – South Durham; race-day pickup is available at the race start. All finishers receive a custom finisher's award and a race shirt. Additional awards are given to the top three overall finishers (male and female) and the top overall masters finishers (male and female). A team challenge is offered for groups of six, scored by combined overall placings. The 50K has an 8-hour time limit and the 12-mile has a 3.5-hour time limit. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.