Sassafras 8 Mile Run/Walk

Upstate Race Series

Sassafras 8 Mile Run/Walk

Rocky Bottom Retreat · Sunset, SC

Conquer the climb. Take in the view. 

Participant Feedback

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Eight miles up the tallest mountain in South Carolina and back down again. A steep, winding road climb carries you to the summit of Sassafras, where the Blue Ridge opens up in every direction, and then a varied trail descent brings you home on natural terrain. The climb is the price of admission. The view is what you paid for.

Course or Race Highlight

There is no easing into this one. The demanding uphill road section to Sassafras's iconic summit starts working on you early and does not let go until you are standing at the top, and the elevation gain is significant enough that walking sections of it is a strategy rather than a surrender. Plenty of strong runners hike the steepest pitches here and still finish well.

The descent is the reward and the second challenge — a beautiful, varied trail with genuine natural terrain, run on legs that just spent an hour climbing. Afterward there is a post-race party with music, fresh hot pancakes, and hot cocoa. Every finisher receives a medal, and your entry supports local nonprofits through the Giving Series.

Race Day Details

WhatSassafras 8 Mile Run/Walk — the Sassafras Mountain 8-Mile ChallengeWhenSunday, March 7, 2027 — 9:00 AM startWhereRocky Bottom Retreat Center for the Blind, Sunset, SCAddress123 Hancock Rd, Sunset, SC 29685Packet PickupBegins at 8:00 AM at Rocky Bottom Retreat Center. No proxy pickups.Time Limit2 hours.

Course

A steep and winding road climb leading to the summit of Sassafras Mountain, followed by a scenic trail descent back toward the finish. Expect panoramic Blue Ridge Mountain views at the peak and a beautiful, varied trail on the way down. Expect a significant climb — this is a true mountain challenge.

View Course Map →

Aid Stations

No on-course aid station on this route. Water is available at the start/finish line, with pancakes and hot cocoa waiting when you are done.

Available snacks:

Post-race pancakes

Hydration:

Water at the start/finish Hot cocoa

Wildly Charged is our official hydration sponsor — look for the orange 5-gallon jugs at aid stations.

What's Included

The Highest Point in South Carolina

You will stand on the summit of Sassafras Mountain.

Custom Race Bib

Your badge of the journey.

Chip Timing & Live Results

Track your effort, splits included.

Custom Finisher Medal

To commemorate the triumph.

Custom Race Tattoo

Wear the moment proudly.

Event-Themed Giveaways

A little extra swag for finishing strong.

Race Sticker

Keep the memory riding shotgun on your bottle, cooler, or laptop.

Post Race Vibes and Media Coverage

Complimentary professional race photos capture the grit and the glory — hang around at the finish line and celebrate.

Race Awards

Top 3 Overall (Male & Female)

The fastest three finishers will each receive a trophy to honor their achievement at the front of the pack.

Age Group Awards (Male & Female)

The 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place finishers in each of 15 age categories will earn an age group medal — a custom piece to add to your finisher's lanyard at the end of the event.

Series Recognition

This race counts toward season-long age group recognition in this series:

Upstate Trail Series

Age Group Categories

0–9

10–12

13–16

17–19

20–29

30–34

35–39

40–44

45–49

50–54

55–59

60–64

65–69

70–79

80+

Giving Back

Every Upstate Race Series event is part of the Upstate Giving Series, which connects our 30 races with 30 nonprofit organizations serving communities across the Upstate. Your registration and any donation you add at checkout go to work close to home — you are not just running a race, you are funding the work of a neighbor.

Upstate Giving Series

Groups & Teams

$5 Discount & Refund for Groups with 5+ Members

The Upstate Running Club welcomes all local and regional running clubs to our events — the more the merrier. Calling all running clubs and social run groups: Upstate Race Series welcomes crews of all kinds to join the fun. Whether your squad is full of weekend warriors, sunrise chasers, or runners motivated by the promise of a cold drink at the finish, we've got an event for you.

Sign up, share with friends and local running clubs, and cash in on race discounts and refunds when your team, run club, or band of misfits hits 5 runners or more.

Good to Know

Are dogs allowed on the course?

Yes.

Are headphones or earbuds allowed?

Yes, but be mindful — you are on a road, so awareness of your surroundings matters.

Can someone else pick up my packet for me?

No.

Is there race-day registration?

Yes, you can register with your personal mobile device on race day. Note that cell service is limited up here.

Is there gear check or somewhere to leave personal items?

You can store gear and drop bags in your car, which will be about 25 meters from where the race starts and finishes.

Are there restrooms near the start/finish?

Yes, bathrooms are located at the open field adjacent to the start and finish lines.

Will I get a medal or a shirt?

All finishers receive a medal. Apparel can be purchased through our Apparel Now online store for shipping, or during registration for pickup on race day.

What happens if there's bad weather?

Upstate Race Series races run rain or shine. In the event of lightning, extreme heat, or hazardous winter conditions, we'll post an update on this page and email registered runners as early as possible. Entry fees aren't refunded for weather delays — see Managing Your Registration below.

Can spectators come watch?

Spectators are welcome. Runner parking fills up race morning — if you're only here to cheer, plan for overflow parking nearby.

When will results and photos be available?

Live results post to the RunSignUp results page as each runner finishes. Free event photos are usually up within 48–72 hours on our Facebook page — we'll tag the album so it's easy to find.

Is there cell service at the venue?

Cell service is limited here — make a plan with anyone meeting you post-race before you lose signal.

Managing Your Registration

Everything about your entry lives in your RunSignUp profile. Sign in, find this race under your upcoming events, and make the change yourself — there is no need to email us first. From there you can:

•Transfer your entry to another runner•Switch to a different distance at this race•Transfer your entry to a different Upstate Race Series event•Update your personal details — name, address, emergency contact, shirt size•Manage add-ons, store items, and apparel purchases

All entries are final. We do not offer refunds or deferrals — but every option above stays open to you right up to race day, so a change of plans does not have to mean a wasted entry.

Manage My Registration →

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