Get ready to experience the 19th Annual Fort Yargo Thrill In The Hills, a premier trail running event set for February 14, 2026, in Winder, Georgia. This race offers an exhilarating escape into nature with distances for every trail enthusiast: a challenging 50K (solo or relay), a scenic 21K, and a fast 5-mile option. Typical race day conditions in mid-February include highs around 55°F and lows around 36°F, with a 19% chance of precipitation, providing cool and potentially crisp running weather.

The Fort Yargo Thrill In The Hills is renowned for its diverse and beautiful course within Fort Yargo State Park. Runners will encounter a "little bit of everything" – from rolling hills to technical sections featuring singletrack, doubletrack, and roots. Although the race begins briefly on a paved section, it quickly immerses you in the serene woods, offering stunning scenery that includes the 260-acre Marbury Creek Reservoir lake and the historic 1792-era log cabin fort. The 21K covers one 13.1-mile loop, while 50K participants will complete two 13.1-mile laps followed by an additional 5-mile loop.

Runners consistently praise the "fantastic organization and support" of this event. Aid stations are strategically placed at approximately 1.5, 5.05, 9.65, and 13.1 miles, offering a full spread of water, Gatorade, cola, snacks, cookies, candy, sandwiches, and fruit to keep you fueled. The start and finish lines are conveniently located at the Nature Center Pavilion (or Parking Lot) at Fort Yargo State Park's Entrance "A". Embracing the mantra to "Ditch the City," this race promises to leave you breathless, not just from the "many, many tiny hills" that make the course tougher than mileage alone suggests, but also from the captivating natural beauty that surrounds you.