Cottonmouth 8 Mile & Beerlay

Get ready for an unforgettable blend of trail running and festive fun at the Cottonmouth 8 Mile & Beerlay, set to unfold on June 6, 2026, in Greenville, SC. This unique event, held at the scenic and shady Lakewood Nature Preserve, offers participants an 8-mile challenge, whether tackling it solo or as part of a 2-4 person relay team. The course consists of four laps of a 2-mile grassy trail loop, featuring rolling hills that participants might find feel a little "bigger after a beer". Keep an eye out for local wildlife like deer and foxes as you navigate the beautiful preserve. Typical race day conditions in early June see highs around 87F and lows near 68F, with a 15% chance of precipitation, making for a warm but potentially refreshing run.

What truly sets the Cottonmouth 8 Mile & Beerlay apart is its signature "BYOB Russian Roulette" experience. Adult runners (21+) contribute four 5%+ ABV beers to a communal iced pool, and before each of the four laps, they receive a randomly selected, opened beer to consume. Minors and sober participants can join the fun with carbonated non-alcoholic alternatives. The rustic barn at Lakewood Nature Preserve serves as both race headquarters and the lively beer-staging zone. This event is more than just a race; it's a celebration of "glorious chaos" and "beer-fueled miles", fostering camaraderie and creating unforgettable memories.

The festivities continue long after the final mile, with a post-race party featuring a hot dog bar, pizza, music, and an array of "Beer Olympics" yard games, including beer pong, tug of war, and cornhole. Packet pickup begins at 3:00 PM, with the race kicking off at 4:00 PM. Participants can even opt for overnight camping at the preserve for a small fee, supporting the nature preserve itself. This annual event supports the Upstate Running Club Youth Team, making your "pure, ridiculous fun" contribute to a great cause.