Dark Horse Trail Series (26.2 - 13.1 - 10k)

🌲 Race Overview

Discover the thrill of trail running amidst the breathtaking beauty of the Dark Horse Trail Marathon and Half Marathon, hosted at the prestigious Tryon International Equestrian Center in North Carolina. Set against a backdrop of rolling hills and lush forests, this event offers both seasoned and novice trail runners an unforgettable experience. Traverse scenic paths that wind through the very grounds known for hosting the world's largest and most magnificent horse shows, creating a unique blend of athleticism and natural splendor.

🏃‍♂️🌳 Race Experience

Whether you're tackling the challenge of the full marathon or opting for the half marathon, each step brings you closer to discovering the serene beauty of Tryon Equestrian Park. Picture yourself racing through wooded trails, crossing babbling brooks, and encountering stunning vistas that epitomize the charm of North Carolina's countryside. The Dark Horse Trail races aren’t just about competition—they're about forging a connection with nature and experiencing the thrill of running in a world-class setting.

🐎 Post-Race Festivities

After conquering the trails, immerse yourself in the post-race festivities at Tryon International Equestrian Center. Celebrate your achievements alongside fellow runners and equestrian enthusiasts, enjoying local food, live music, and the vibrant atmosphere of this renowned venue. Whether you're drawn to the challenge of the marathon or the camaraderie of the half marathon, the Dark Horse Trail races offer an unparalleled blend of athleticism, natural beauty, and community spirit. Lace up your shoes, embrace the adventure, and join us for a race day experience unlike any other!

🏞️ Location Details

• Location: Tryon, North Carolina is located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, which provides a beautiful and diverse natural setting. The area features rolling hills, forests, and scenic views of the surrounding landscape, which are popular for outdoor recreation.
• Trail System: The town is known for its well-developed trail system, offering a variety of hiking, biking, and horseback riding opportunities, providing access to scenic vistas, waterfalls, and other natural wonders.
• Equestrian Center: Tryon Equestrian Center is a premier equestrian facility that features state-of-the-art facilities for equestrian events and is a destination for equestrian enthusiasts and competitors from around the world.
• Land Feature: Escape your day-to-day life and enjoy a romantic getaway in South Carolina’s beautiful Foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, indulging in the natural beauty while the normal hustle and bustle fades away.

📅 Event Details

• When: All Races Start at 8am
• Where: Tryon Equestrian Center
• Address: 25 International Blvd, Mill Spring, NC 28756
• Parking: When you enter the Equestrian Center, stay to the left to enter the main gate. Let them know that you are here for the race and follow the driveway to the left which will lead you to participant parking adjacent to the start/finish line next to the General Store.

🗒️ Packet Pickup

• Time: Will be held at the Start/Finish Line starting 1 hour prior to your event (address listed above).
• Amenities include: Breakfast Diner – Coffee Shop – Convenient Store – Bars/Restaurants – Indoor Bathrooms.

🗺️ Course Information

Click for Strava - Course Map

The course consists of a 6.5 Mile loop that rolls through the equestrian center and has a combination of wide packed dirt paths, single track trails, and grassy meadows! The course is very scenic and is constantly changing. The course has 600 feet of elevation gain per loop.

🚰 Aid Station

There is one aid station at the start and finish line. Items may include: pickles, cookies, chips, assorted candy, fig newtons, & pretzels. Hydration will include water, coke, and ginger ale. If you would like to donate an aid station supply of something that we do not offer or that is homemade feel free! Cup-less Event: Please provide your own hydration vessel for use at our aid stations. We gladly accept aid station donations of food items that you like to see at races.

🏕️ Staging Area - Camping and Personal Aid Station

Camping is available for participants and crew members during registration. No water or power, but plenty of space to spread out along the course and right next to the course! Drop Bags can be placed at the start/finish line area. Please label your drop bag with your name and BIB number. This ensures that your drop bag is at the finish line ready for you as soon as you finish.