Sufferfest on Section 4

Sufferfest on Section 4

Sufferfest on Section 4 is a time-limited challenge held in Middleburg, FL on August 8, 2026. The event runs for 5 hours on Section 4 of the Pioneer Trail. The route is an out and back of roughly 2.5 miles one way on mainly single track. The trail is technical and hilly with switchbacks and overlooks of Black Creek and several scenic vistas. August weather brings notable heat and humidity typical of northeast Florida.

The field is limited to about 40 to 45 participants to reduce congestion on the single track and because parking at the Phillips Branch parking area, known as the "4 way" lot, is limited. Organizers note alternate parking options may exist and encourage carpooling to minimize parking issues. The event is free to enter; donations are encouraged and any collected funds will be donated to the Friends of Florida State Forest.

This is a cupless event. Participants must bring their own hydration vessel and fueling supplies. Organizers will provide at least one igloo with cold-ish water and an igloo with Skratch electrolytes and some pickle juice at the halfway point, though that station may not be continuously manned.

There is no formal timing. A competitive element awards a comp entry to an organizer race to the person who completes the most out and backs, and a random entry giveaway will be offered. A loop tally method will be used to track progress. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.