Sassafras 8 Mile Run/Walk
When is Sassafras 8 Mile Run/Walk?
Sassafras 8 Mile Run/Walk takes place on Sunday, March 7, 2027 in Sunset, SC.
What distances does Sassafras 8 Mile Run/Walk offer?
Sassafras 8 Mile Run/Walk offers 2 events: Sassafras Struggle (8mi), Sassafras Struggle (8mi).
| Event | Distance | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sassafras Struggle (8mi) | 8.0 mi | $30.00 | Register |
| Sassafras Struggle (8mi) | 8.0 mi | $35.00 | Register |
How much does Sassafras 8 Mile Run/Walk cost?
Registration for Sassafras 8 Mile Run/Walk starts at $30.00. Prices vary by event distance.
Where is Sassafras 8 Mile Run/Walk held?
Sassafras 8 Mile Run/Walk is held in Sunset, SC at 123 Hancock Rd.
About Sassafras 8 Mile Run/Walk
Sassafras 8 Mile Run/Walk
Conquer the climb. Take in the view. 🏔
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.
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
| What | Sassafras 8 Mile Run/Walk — the Sassafras Mountain 8-Mile Challenge |
| When | Sunday, March 7, 2027 — 9:00 AM start |
| Where | Rocky Bottom Retreat Center for the Blind, Sunset, SC |
| Address | 123 Hancock Rd, Sunset, SC 29685 |
| Packet Pickup | Begins at 8:00 AM at Rocky Bottom Retreat Center. No proxy pickups. |
| Time Limit | 2 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 →Parking
Parking is free, in the open field adjacent to the start and finish lines. You can store your gear and drop bags in your car, which will sit about 25 meters from where the race starts and finishes.
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:
Hydration:
What's Included
Complimentary professional race photos capture the grit and the glory — hang around at the finish line and celebrate.
Race Awards
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.
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
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.
Let's Stay Connected
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