Mountains-to-Sea Trail 50K Challenge

Mountains-to-Sea Trail 12M & 50K Challenge : April 12, 2026

The event is the 17th annual Mountains-to-Sea Trail (MST) 12M & 50K Challenge, held on April 12, 2026. The race follows single-track sections of the MST through the woods around Falls Lake in Raleigh, NC. Both distances are out-and-back courses that start and finish at Blue Jay Point County Park. Distances offered:

• 12 miles
• 50 kilometers

Course details and logistics

The course is mostly single-track trail with roots, rocks, quick turns, logs, wildlife encounters, and possible water crossings. The route lies within MST Segment 10 between mile markers 59 and 74 and includes causeways where the trail meets pavement. Aid stations and crew access points are located approximately every 3 miles and supply water, an electrolyte drink (Tailwind), GU energy gels, snacks, and basic first aid. The 50K aid stations will include snacks and fruit. Restrooms and porta-jons are available at Blue Jay Point County Park; additional restroom facilities are at the 50K turn-around at Falls Lake Dam.

Parking and access: 50K participants park at Blue Jay Point County Park. 12M participants park at Barton’s Creek Boat Ramp and are shuttled to the start/finish area. Drop bags are provided for 50K runners and a designated bag area is available for 12M runners at the finish. Time limits: 50K - 8 hours; 12M - 3.5 hours. Awards include a finisher award for all finishers, top 3 overall M/F, and top masters M/F. A team challenge is available for registered teams of six. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.