Dark Horse Trail Series (26.2 - 13.1 - 10k)
Sat, Aug 22, 2026, 4:00 AM EDT
- Type
- Run
Finish signup on the organizer site (check fees and dates there).
Race feel
Gallop through scenic trails at a world-class equestrian center, enjoying a unique horse-themed race and lively post-race celebration.
- Fun
- Scenic
- Quirky
- Festive
Fun
Scenic
Quirky
FestiveExperience the Dark Horse Trail Race at the Tryon International Equestrian Center, where nature and sport beautifully converge. Run through stunning trails, rolling hills, and lush forests, with a unique horse-themed adventure. Imagine galloping along wide dirt paths, single-track trails, and grassy meadows, perhaps even spotting a horse. This event offers a challenging yet memorable journey through the Foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, culminating in lively post-race festivities with food, drinks, and live music in a vibrant atmosphere.
What to expect
- Navigate a 6.5-mile loop course featuring wide packed dirt paths, single-track trails, and grassy meadows.
- Encounter 600 feet of elevation gain per loop, offering a steady challenge amidst beautiful terrain.
- Enjoy post-race festivities with food, drinks, and live music at the vibrant Equestrian Center.
Standout details
- Tryon International Equestrian Center
- Unique horse-themed trail run
- Rolling hills & lush forests
- Post-race food, drinks & live music
Perks & features
- After-Party
After-PartyFrom the public listing; confirm on the official site.
Distances & registration
3 optionsUse the official signup link above for all distances.
10K
1 option · closes Aug 22, 2026, 7:59 PM EDT
3mo 22d 10h 46m leftDark Horse 10k
Closes Aug 22, 2026, 7:59 PM EDT · From $27.50
Half Marathon
1 option · closes Aug 22, 2026, 7:59 PM EDT
3mo 22d 10h 46m leftDark Horse Half Marathon
Closes Aug 22, 2026, 7:59 PM EDT · From $27.50
Marathon
1 option · closes Aug 22, 2026, 7:59 PM EDT
3mo 22d 10h 46m leftDark Horse Marathon
Closes Aug 22, 2026, 7:59 PM EDT · From $32.80
Summaries use public event text. Confirm schedule, fees, and rules on the official page before you sign up.
Past race snapshot
What the field usually feels like
A plain-English read from past public results. It is helpful context, not a prediction.
Crowd
Small field
33 25K finishers in 2020. A quieter race where the pack may spread out more quickly.
Typical finish
2:44:06
Think middle-of-the-pack, using chip time when available.
Competitive feel
Lively front
The faster end moves well, but the race still has room for everyday runners. Front-group read: 1:56:54.
People mix
More women
About 58% women and 42% men among finishers who listed gender.
Quick read
For the 25K in 2020, this looks like a small field: 33 finishers are represented here. A middle-of-the-pack finish was around 2:44:06. The quicker front of the field averaged about 1:56:54. Use it as a feel check, not a promise about race day.
Award clues
Historic placement clues only. Race-day awards can use different rules.
Female 20-29
Top 5 (from posted divisions)
Female 30-34
Top 5 (from posted divisions)
Female 35-39
Top 5 (from posted divisions)
Female 40-44
Top 5 (from posted divisions)
Female 45-49
Top 5 (from posted divisions)
Show the year-by-year numbers
| Distance | Year | Finishers | Typical | Average | Front 10% | Fastest M / W |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 25K | 2020 | 33 | 2:44:06 | 2:55:38 | 1:56:54 | 1:48:43 / 1:59:22 |
Last summary update: May 2, 2026
From the organizer
🐎 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! 🏇🐴🌿