Mountains-to-Sea Trail 50K Challenge
Durham, United States • 12 Apr 2026
Mountains-to-Sea Trail 12M & 50K Challenge
The Mountains-to-Sea Trail 12M & 50K Challenge is an annual trail running event held in Durham, North Carolina. Now in its 17th year, the race takes place on the single-track hiking trails of the Mountains-to-Sea Trail (MST). The course follows the woods along the Eno River and proceeds toward Falls Lake.
Participants can choose from two distinct distances:
- 12 Miles (approximately 13 miles due to course updates)
- 50 km
The route consists of technical single-track terrain, featuring natural obstacles such as rocks, roots, logs, and quick turns. Due to construction at Blue Jay Point County Park, updated course routes are implemented for the 2026 edition. This is a cupless event, meaning participants are required to carry their own hydration devices, though water and electrolyte drinks are provided at stocked aid stations and the finish area.
The event starts and finishes at Riverside High School. All participants receive a custom race shirt and a finisher's award. Additional awards are presented to the top three overall male and female finishers, as well as the top overall masters finishers in both categories. Regulations for the event include a prohibition on dogs, strollers, littering, and unregistered pacers. Standard headphones are not permitted, although open-ear bone conduction styles are allowed. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.