Longest Night Trail Run

The Longest Night Trail Run, held on December 19, 2026, in Greenville, SC, offers a truly unique overnight ultrarunning experience under the winter sky. This captivating event invites runners to challenge themselves across distances of 50M, 50K, 26.2M, 13.1M, and 10K, all within the picturesque Lakewood Nature Preserve. Known for its distinct "Backyard Elimination Race" style, participants tackle a 1.5-mile loop through wide grassy trails and rolling hills, with 25 minutes to complete each lap. This format allows for strategic pacing, camaraderie, and the unique opportunity to refuel and relax by a cozy fire at the central barn between loops.

The course itself, a scenic journey through a 120-acre preserve of forest and prairie, provides a magical backdrop for running under the moon and stars. Participants can expect to hear the sounds of nature, from rustling deer to whispering wings, enhancing the immersive nighttime adventure. The main hub, a charming old barn, serves as the start/finish line and a well-stocked aid station offering hot soup, broth, pickles, chips, candy, and various beverages. Runners should note this is a cup-less event and are encouraged to bring their own hydration vessels. Ample space is available around the barn for personal setups, allowing crews and runners to create their own comfortable base camps.

Typical race day conditions in mid-December see highs around 56F and lows near 39F, with a 17% chance of precipitation, making for brisk but often runnable temperatures ideal for sustained effort. The Longest Night Trail Run is more than just a race; it's an enchanting test of endurance and spirit, culminating in a celebration beneath the rising sun as runners conquer the longest night of the year.