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

Mill Spring, North Carolina
Dark Horse Trail Series (26.2 - 13.1 - 10k) official race logo - running event in Mill Spring, North Carolina
DATE:
TIME:
LOCATION:
Mill Spring, North Carolina
PRICE:
Free
DISTANCES:
3 Events: 26.2 Miles, 13.1 Miles, 10K

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

🐎 Gallop Through the Trails at the Dark Horse Trail Race! 🌲

 
Giddy up, runners! The Dark Horse Trail Marathon & Half Marathon at the Tryon International Equestrian Center in beautiful Tryon, North Carolina is the perfect opportunity for you to feel the wind in your hair as you race through stunning trails set against the backdrop of rolling hills and lush forests 🏞️. Whether you're a seasoned trail runner or a newcomer, this race promises an unforgettable adventure through a unique blend of athleticism and the natural beauty that only the Foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains can offer 🌳.
 
Imagine galloping through wide dirt paths, winding your way through single-track trails, and trotting across grassy meadows 🌾. Along the way, you'll take in breathtaking views, and if you're lucky, you might spot a fellow horse galloping by as you run through the very grounds that host the world's grandest equestrian events 🏇. This is the place where nature and sport collide, creating a race day experience like no other. Whether you're chasing that marathon glory or just here for the half marathon fun, each step brings you closer to the heart of this magical, four-legged world.
 
After crossing the finish line, enjoy the post-race festivities alongside your fellow runners and equestrian fans 🎉. The Tryon International Equestrian Center is always buzzing with energy, and you can celebrate your victory with food 🍔, drinks 🍻, and live music 🎶 while taking in the beautiful atmosphere of this renowned venue. It’s not just about the race—it’s about connecting with the land, nature, and the incredible spirit of adventure 🐾.

 
Event Details

When: All Races Start at 8:00 AM ⏰
Where: Tryon Equestrian Center
Address: 25 International Blvd, Mill Spring, NC 28756 📍
Packet Pickup: Will be held at the Start/Finish Line starting 1 hour before your event 🏁.
Course Cutoff: For the marathon: Runners have 6 hours to complete but must start last lap before 5 hours
Parking: When you enter the Equestrian Center, stay to the left to enter the main gate 🏇. Let them know you're here for the race, and follow the driveway to the left, which will lead you to participant parking, right by the start/finish line next to the General Store 🚗
 

Amenities located within eye sight of the start/finish line

  • Breakfast Diner 🍳
  • Coffee Shop ☕
  • Convenient Store 🛒
  • Bars/Restaurants 🍽️
  • Indoor Bathrooms 🚻
 

Course Map: Strava Course Map - HERE🗺️

The course consists of a 6.5-mile loop that meanders through the equestrian center with a mixture of wide packed dirt paths, single-track trails, and meadows 🐴. The course has 600 feet of elevation gain per loop, offering you a steady challenge as you gallop through this beautiful terrain 🏞️.
 

Aid Station

There is one aid station at the start and finish line 🏁.
You'll find pickles 🥒, cookies 🍪, chips 🥨, fig newtons, and pretzels 🥨. 
Hydration will include water 💧, coke 🥤, and ginger ale 🥤.
Cup-less Event: Please bring your own hydration vessel for use at the aid station 🏅. 
Feel free to donate any homemade snacks or supplies you'd like to see at the aid station 🍪.

 
Staging Area - Camping & Personal Aid Stations

We offer camping for participants and their crews during registration ⛺. There’s no water or power, but you'll have plenty of space to spread out next to the course and enjoy the serenity of nature 🌲. Drop bags can be placed at the start/finish line area 👜. Please label your drop bag with your name and bib number to ensure it’s waiting for you at the finish line when you’re done 🏁.
 
Don’t miss the chance to trot, gallop, and race through the scenic beauty of the Tryon Equestrian Center. This is your opportunity to experience the thrill of the Dark Horse Trail Race! 🏇🐴🌿
Dark Horse Trail Series (26.2 - 13.1 - 10k)🐎 Gallop Through the Trails at the Dark Horse Trail Race! 🌲   Giddy up, runners! The Dark Horse Trail Marathon & Half Marathon at the Tryon International Equestrian Center in beautiful Tryon, North Carolina is the perfect opportunity for you to feel the wind in your hair as you race through stunning trails set against the backdrop of rolling hills and lush forests 🏞️. Whether you're a seasoned trail runner or a newcomer, this race promises an unforgettable adventure through a unique blend of athleticism and the natural beauty that only the Foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains can offer 🌳.   Imagine galloping through wide dirt paths, winding your way through single-track trails, and trotting across grassy meadows 🌾. Along the way, you'll take in breathtaking views, and if you're lucky, you might spot a fellow horse galloping by as you run through the very grounds that host the world's grandest equestrian events 🏇. This is the place where nature and sport collide, creating a race day experience like no other. Whether you're chasing that marathon glory or just here for the half marathon fun, each step brings you closer to the heart of this magical, four-legged world.   After crossing the finish line, enjoy the post-race festivities alongside your fellow runners and equestrian fans 🎉. The Tryon International Equestrian Center is always buzzing with energy, and you can celebrate your victory with food 🍔, drinks 🍻, and live music 🎶 while taking in the beautiful atmosphere of this renowned venue. It’s not just about the race—it’s about connecting with the land, nature, and the incredible spirit of adventure 🐾.  Event Details When: All Races Start at 8:00 AM ⏰ Where: Tryon Equestrian Center Address: 25 International Blvd, Mill Spring, NC 28756 📍 Packet Pickup: Will be held at the Start/Finish Line starting 1 hour before your event 🏁. Course Cutoff: For the marathon: Runners have 6 hours to complete but must start last lap before 5 hours Parking: When you enter the Equestrian Center, stay to the left to enter the main gate 🏇. Let them know you're here for the race, and follow the driveway to the left, which will lead you to participant parking, right by the start/finish line next to the General Store 🚗   Amenities located within eye sight of the start/finish line Breakfast Diner 🍳 Coffee Shop ☕ Convenient Store 🛒 Bars/Restaurants 🍽️ Indoor Bathrooms 🚻   Course Map: Strava Course Map - HERE🗺️ The course consists of a 6.5-mile loop that meanders through the equestrian center with a mixture of wide packed dirt paths, single-track trails, and meadows 🐴. The course has 600 feet of elevation gain per loop, offering you a steady challenge as you gallop through this beautiful terrain 🏞️.   Aid Station There is one aid station at the start and finish line 🏁. You'll find pickles 🥒, cookies 🍪, chips 🥨, fig newtons, and pretzels 🥨.  Hydration will include water 💧, coke 🥤, and ginger ale 🥤. Cup-less Event: Please bring your own hydration vessel for use at the aid station 🏅.  Feel free to donate any homemade snacks or supplies you'd like to see at the aid station 🍪.  Staging Area - Camping & Personal Aid Stations We offer camping for participants and their crews during registration ⛺. There’s no water or power, but you'll have plenty of space to spread out next to the course and enjoy the serenity of nature 🌲. Drop bags can be placed at the start/finish line area 👜. Please label your drop bag with your name and bib number to ensure it’s waiting for you at the finish line when you’re done 🏁.  Don’t miss the chance to trot, gallop, and race through the scenic beauty of the Tryon Equestrian Center. This is your opportunity to experience the thrill of the Dark Horse Trail Race! 🏇🐴🌿
Mill Spring, NC

Race Events & Distances

Choose from 3 race distances available for Dark Horse Trail Series (26.2 - 13.1 - 10k) in Mill Spring, NC. Registration includes timing, finisher medals, and post-race refreshments.

Dark Horse Marathon

26.2 Miles
Distance
26.2 Miles
Start Time
Registration Fee
$0.00
https://schema.org/EventScheduledhttps://schema.org/OfflineEventAttendanceMode
Mill Spring, NC
Mill SpringNC
Dark Horse Trail Series (26.2 - 13.1 - 10k) Organizers

Frequently Asked Questions about Dark Horse Marathon

How long is the Dark Horse Marathon?
The Dark Horse Marathon covers 26.2 Miles.
What time does the Dark Horse Marathon start?
The Dark Horse Marathon starts at 8:00:00 AM.
How much does it cost to register for the Dark Horse Marathon?
Registration for the Dark Horse Marathon costs $0.00.
Where is the Dark Horse Marathon located?
The Dark Horse Marathon takes place in Mill Spring, NC.

Dark Horse Half Marathon

13.1 Miles
Distance
13.1 Miles
Start Time
Registration Fee
$0.00
https://schema.org/EventScheduledhttps://schema.org/OfflineEventAttendanceMode
Mill Spring, NC
Mill SpringNC
Dark Horse Trail Series (26.2 - 13.1 - 10k) Organizers

Frequently Asked Questions about Dark Horse Half Marathon

How long is the Dark Horse Half Marathon?
The Dark Horse Half Marathon covers 13.1 Miles.
What time does the Dark Horse Half Marathon start?
The Dark Horse Half Marathon starts at 8:00:00 AM.
How much does it cost to register for the Dark Horse Half Marathon?
Registration for the Dark Horse Half Marathon costs $0.00.
Where is the Dark Horse Half Marathon located?
The Dark Horse Half Marathon takes place in Mill Spring, NC.

Dark Horse 10k

10K (6.2 miles)
Distance
10K (6.2 miles)
Start Time
Registration Fee
$0.00
https://schema.org/EventScheduledhttps://schema.org/OfflineEventAttendanceMode
Mill Spring, NC
Mill SpringNC
Dark Horse Trail Series (26.2 - 13.1 - 10k) Organizers

Frequently Asked Questions about Dark Horse 10k

How long is the Dark Horse 10k?
The Dark Horse 10k covers 10K (6.2 miles).
What time does the Dark Horse 10k start?
The Dark Horse 10k starts at 8:00:00 AM.
How much does it cost to register for the Dark Horse 10k?
Registration for the Dark Horse 10k costs $0.00.
Where is the Dark Horse 10k located?
The Dark Horse 10k takes place in Mill Spring, NC.

Registration Information

Registration is typically available online until race day (subject to capacity). Early registration is recommended for guaranteed entry and potential early bird pricing. Check with race organizers for specific event details and included amenities.

Races Nearby in Mill Spring, North Carolina

Earl Scruggs Run the Rhythm 5K

Mill Spring, NC

August 30, 2025

Run for Outreach - Tryon Half Marathon and Fall for the Foothills 5K

Mill Spring, NC

November 15, 2025

Winterfest 1 Mile Fun Run and 5k

Mill Spring, NC

November 28, 2025

Arctic Dash

Mill Spring, NC

January 6, 2026

OUTLAST BLUE RIDGE

Mill Spring, NC

March 21, 2026