Sassafras 8 Mile Run/Walk
- Date Sun 7th March 2027
- Time 9:00AM EST
- Location Sunset, South Carolina
- Price $38.10
- Races 1 race
Event summary
Get ready for an exhilarating adventure at the Sassafras 8 Mile Run/Walk on Sunday, March 7, 2027! Set against the breathtaking backdrop of Sunset, South Carolina, this event promises to be a thrilling challenge as participants conquer the highest peak in the state. Starting at Rocky Bottom Retreat at 9:00 AM, runners and walkers will tackle a steep, winding climb to the summit of Sassafras Mountain, enjoying stunning panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains along the way.
This 8-mile course is not just a test of endurance; it's a celebration of nature and community! After the climb, participants will be rewarded with a varied trail descent back to the finish line, where a post-race party awaits with delicious pancakes and hot cocoa for all finishers. Every participant will receive a medal, making this event not only a fun and rewarding experience but also a great way to support local nonprofits through the Upstate Giving Series. Don’t miss out on this unique blend of fitness, fun, and philanthropy!
This 8-mile course is not just a test of endurance; it's a celebration of nature and community! After the climb, participants will be rewarded with a varied trail descent back to the finish line, where a post-race party awaits with delicious pancakes and hot cocoa for all finishers. Every participant will receive a medal, making this event not only a fun and rewarding experience but also a great way to support local nonprofits through the Upstate Giving Series. Don’t miss out on this unique blend of fitness, fun, and philanthropy!
Organiser's Description
[Sassafras 8 Mile 2027]
[Sassafras 8 Mile logo]
Upstate Race Series / Upstate Trail Series
SASSAFRAS 8 MILE RUN/WALK
8 MI
Conquer the climb. Take in the view.
Sun, Mar 7
2027
9:00 AM
start
Rocky Bottom Retreat
Sunset, SC
Register [https://runsignup.com/Race/Register/?raceId=77623]
Course map [https://www.strava.com/routes/3270740896365868198]Directions [https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=123+Hancock+Rd+Sunset+SC+29685]Race groups [https://runsignup.com/RaceGroups/77623]Donate [https://runsignup.com/Race/Donate/SC/Sunset/SassafrasStruggle]Results [https://runsignup.com/Race/Results/77623]Race photos [https://runsignup.com/Race/Photos/SC/Sunset/SassafrasStruggle]Apparel [https://upstateraceseries.myshopify.com/collections/sassafras-8-mile]
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.
Runner Feedback
RACE DAY DETAILS
Sunday, March 7, 2027 at Rocky Bottom Retreat Center for the Blind, 123 Hancock Rd, Sunset, SC 29685. Get directions [https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=123+Hancock+Rd+Sunset+SC+29685].
8:00 AM
Packet pickup opens
Begins at 8:00 AM at Rocky Bottom Retreat Center. No proxy pickups.
9:00 AM
Start
Sassafras 8 Mile Run/Walk the Sassafras Mountain 8-Mile Challenge.
On course
Up to the summit
A steep and winding road climb leading to the summit of Sassafras Mountain, followed by a scenic trail descent back toward the finish.
Finish
Pancakes and hot cocoa
Afterward there is a post-race party with music, fresh hot pancakes, and hot cocoa. Every finisher receives a medal.
11:00 AM
Time limit
2 hours.
After
Results and photos
Live results post to the RunSignUp results page as each runner finishes. Free event photos are usually up within 4872 hours on our Facebook page.
COURSE OR RACE HIGHLIGHT
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.
THE 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 the course map [https://www.strava.com/routes/3270740896365868198]
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
Post-race pancakes
HYDRATION
Water at the start/finishHot cocoa
WHAT'S INCLUDED
Included with every entry
Free Race Photos
Professional photos of every runner, free to download after the race.
Race-day perk
The Highest Point in South Carolina
You will stand on the summit of Sassafras Mountain.
WHAT YOU GET
Finisher Medal
Every finisher
Race Socks
First 100 sign-ups
Race Tee
Add-on at registration [https://upstateraceseries.myshopify.com/collections/sassafras-8-mile]
CUSTOM RACE BIB + CHIP TIMING
Live results with splits.
CUSTOM RACE TATTOO + STICKERS
Race-day extras for every runner.
From past races. See all race photos [https://runsignup.com/Race/Photos/SC/Sunset/SassafrasStruggle]
RACE AWARDS
TOP 3 OVERALL (MALE & FEMALE)
The fastest three finishers will each receive a trophy to honor their achievement at the front of the pack.
AGE GROUP AWARDS (MALE & FEMALE)
The 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place finishers in each of 15 age categories will earn an age group medal a custom piece to add to your finisher's lanyard at the end of the event.
SERIES RECOGNITION
This race counts toward season-long age group recognition in these three series:
Upstate Trail Series [https://runsignup.com/Series/UpstateUltraGetDirty]Upstate Road Series [https://runsignup.com/Series/RunInPointSeries]Upstate Youth Series [https://runsignup.com/Series/Youth]
SERIES AWARDS
Run the series and earn more than a finish:
SERIES FINISHER finish 5 races in a series to earn that series Finisher coin and Finisher tee. Free and earned on the course, never sold.
UPSTATE 250 CLUB log 250 or more race miles across Upstate Race Series events in a season to earn the 250 Club buckle.
THE ANCHOR AWARD the runner with the most race miles across the Upstate Race Series keeps the Anchor Award for the year, and their name goes on it for good.
Age Group Categories
09
1012
1316
1719
2029
3034
3539
4044
4549
5054
5559
6064
6569
7079
80+
GIVING BACK
This race supports
The Parenting Place
An Easley child abuse prevention agency offering home visits, counseling and parenting classes across five Upstate counties. They host their own race too: Colorful Run. Visit The Parenting Place [https://tppupstate.org/]Colorful Run [https://runsignup.com/Race/SC/Anderson/Andersons1stChildAbusePreventRun]Donate [https://runsignup.com/Race/Donate/SC/Sunset/SassafrasStruggle]
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. Upstate Giving Series [https://upstategivingseries.com/].
GROUPS & TEAMS
SAVE
$5
GROUPS OF 5+
RUN CLUBS & CREWS
Run it with your crew.
Your club is probably already here. Join it when you register and save when your group hits 5.
1
Find your club
50+ Upstate run clubs are preloaded.
2
Join at sign-up
Pick it during registration, or start your own crew.
3
Hit 5 runners
Everyone in the group saves $5. Early sign-ups get it back automatically.
ALREADY ON THE LIST Upstate Running ClubRockers Run ClubWR@DRunning for BrewsSwamp CommonersHub City RunnersDouble Stamp Run Club+ 44 more
Find your club [https://runsignup.com/RaceGroups/77623]Register with your crew [https://runsignup.com/Race/Register/?raceId=77623]
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
Are dogs allowed on the course?
Yes
Can someone else pick up my packet for me?
No
Are headphones or earbuds allowed?
Yes, but be mindful you are on a road, so awareness of your surroundings matters.
Is there race-day registration?
Yes, you can register with your personal mobile device on race day. Note that cell service is limited up here.
Is there gear check or somewhere to leave personal items?
You can store gear and drop bags in your car, which will be about 25 meters from where the race starts and finishes.
Are there restrooms near the start/finish?
Yes, bathrooms are located at the open field adjacent to the start and finish lines.
Will I get a medal or a shirt?
All finishers receive a medal. Race apparel can be added during registration and is mailed directly to you, or you can shop the full collection on our Apparel tab.
What happens if there's bad weather?
Upstate Race Series races run rain or shine. In the event of lightning, extreme heat, or hazardous winter conditions, we'll post an update on this page and email registered runners as early as possible. Entry fees aren't refunded for weather delays see Managing Your Registration below.
Can spectators come watch?
Spectators are welcome. Runner parking fills up race morning if you're only here to cheer, plan for overflow parking nearby.
When will results and photos be available?
Live results post to the RunSignUp results page as each runner finishes. Free event photos are usually up within 4872 hours on our Facebook page we'll tag the album so it's easy to find.
Is there cell service at the venue?
Cell service is limited here make a plan with anyone meeting you post-race before you lose signal.
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. Manage my registration [https://runsignup.com/Profile]
LET'S STAY CONNECTED
Follow along, gear up, and keep up with everything Upstate Race Series
This race
Register [https://runsignup.com/Race/Register/?raceId=77623]
Course map [https://www.strava.com/routes/3270740896365868198]
Directions [https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=123+Hancock+Rd+Sunset+SC+29685]
Race groups [https://runsignup.com/RaceGroups/77623]
Results [https://runsignup.com/Race/Results/77623]
Race photos [https://runsignup.com/Race/Photos/SC/Sunset/SassafrasStruggle]
Race apparel [https://upstateraceseries.myshopify.com/collections/sassafras-8-mile]
Manage my registration [https://runsignup.com/Profile]
Series & giving
Upstate Trail Series [https://runsignup.com/Series/UpstateUltraGetDirty]
Upstate Giving Series [https://upstategivingseries.com/]
The Parenting Place [https://tppupstate.org/]
Colorful Run [https://runsignup.com/Race/SC/Anderson/Andersons1stChildAbusePreventRun]
Donate [https://runsignup.com/Race/Donate/SC/Sunset/SassafrasStruggle]
Upstate Race Series
UpstateRaceSeries.com [https://www.upstateraceseries.com]
Questions? Use the contact form below or tap the chat button in the corner.
Instagram @upstateraceseries [https://www.instagram.com/upstateraceseries]
Facebook: Upstate Event Management [https://www.facebook.com/UpstateEventManagement]
Apparel store [https://upstateraceseries.myshopify.com/]
[Sassafras 8 Mile logo]
Upstate Race Series / Upstate Trail Series
SASSAFRAS 8 MILE RUN/WALK
8 MI
Conquer the climb. Take in the view.
Sun, Mar 7
2027
9:00 AM
start
Rocky Bottom Retreat
Sunset, SC
Register [https://runsignup.com/Race/Register/?raceId=77623]
Course map [https://www.strava.com/routes/3270740896365868198]Directions [https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=123+Hancock+Rd+Sunset+SC+29685]Race groups [https://runsignup.com/RaceGroups/77623]Donate [https://runsignup.com/Race/Donate/SC/Sunset/SassafrasStruggle]Results [https://runsignup.com/Race/Results/77623]Race photos [https://runsignup.com/Race/Photos/SC/Sunset/SassafrasStruggle]Apparel [https://upstateraceseries.myshopify.com/collections/sassafras-8-mile]
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.
Runner Feedback
RACE DAY DETAILS
Sunday, March 7, 2027 at Rocky Bottom Retreat Center for the Blind, 123 Hancock Rd, Sunset, SC 29685. Get directions [https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=123+Hancock+Rd+Sunset+SC+29685].
8:00 AM
Packet pickup opens
Begins at 8:00 AM at Rocky Bottom Retreat Center. No proxy pickups.
9:00 AM
Start
Sassafras 8 Mile Run/Walk the Sassafras Mountain 8-Mile Challenge.
On course
Up to the summit
A steep and winding road climb leading to the summit of Sassafras Mountain, followed by a scenic trail descent back toward the finish.
Finish
Pancakes and hot cocoa
Afterward there is a post-race party with music, fresh hot pancakes, and hot cocoa. Every finisher receives a medal.
11:00 AM
Time limit
2 hours.
After
Results and photos
Live results post to the RunSignUp results page as each runner finishes. Free event photos are usually up within 4872 hours on our Facebook page.
COURSE OR RACE HIGHLIGHT
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.
THE 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 the course map [https://www.strava.com/routes/3270740896365868198]
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
Post-race pancakes
HYDRATION
Water at the start/finishHot cocoa
WHAT'S INCLUDED
Included with every entry
Free Race Photos
Professional photos of every runner, free to download after the race.
Race-day perk
The Highest Point in South Carolina
You will stand on the summit of Sassafras Mountain.
WHAT YOU GET
Finisher Medal
Every finisher
Race Socks
First 100 sign-ups
Race Tee
Add-on at registration [https://upstateraceseries.myshopify.com/collections/sassafras-8-mile]
CUSTOM RACE BIB + CHIP TIMING
Live results with splits.
CUSTOM RACE TATTOO + STICKERS
Race-day extras for every runner.
From past races. See all race photos [https://runsignup.com/Race/Photos/SC/Sunset/SassafrasStruggle]
RACE AWARDS
TOP 3 OVERALL (MALE & FEMALE)
The fastest three finishers will each receive a trophy to honor their achievement at the front of the pack.
AGE GROUP AWARDS (MALE & FEMALE)
The 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place finishers in each of 15 age categories will earn an age group medal a custom piece to add to your finisher's lanyard at the end of the event.
SERIES RECOGNITION
This race counts toward season-long age group recognition in these three series:
Upstate Trail Series [https://runsignup.com/Series/UpstateUltraGetDirty]Upstate Road Series [https://runsignup.com/Series/RunInPointSeries]Upstate Youth Series [https://runsignup.com/Series/Youth]
SERIES AWARDS
Run the series and earn more than a finish:
SERIES FINISHER finish 5 races in a series to earn that series Finisher coin and Finisher tee. Free and earned on the course, never sold.
UPSTATE 250 CLUB log 250 or more race miles across Upstate Race Series events in a season to earn the 250 Club buckle.
THE ANCHOR AWARD the runner with the most race miles across the Upstate Race Series keeps the Anchor Award for the year, and their name goes on it for good.
Age Group Categories
09
1012
1316
1719
2029
3034
3539
4044
4549
5054
5559
6064
6569
7079
80+
GIVING BACK
This race supports
The Parenting Place
An Easley child abuse prevention agency offering home visits, counseling and parenting classes across five Upstate counties. They host their own race too: Colorful Run. Visit The Parenting Place [https://tppupstate.org/]Colorful Run [https://runsignup.com/Race/SC/Anderson/Andersons1stChildAbusePreventRun]Donate [https://runsignup.com/Race/Donate/SC/Sunset/SassafrasStruggle]
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. Upstate Giving Series [https://upstategivingseries.com/].
GROUPS & TEAMS
SAVE
$5
GROUPS OF 5+
RUN CLUBS & CREWS
Run it with your crew.
Your club is probably already here. Join it when you register and save when your group hits 5.
1
Find your club
50+ Upstate run clubs are preloaded.
2
Join at sign-up
Pick it during registration, or start your own crew.
3
Hit 5 runners
Everyone in the group saves $5. Early sign-ups get it back automatically.
ALREADY ON THE LIST Upstate Running ClubRockers Run ClubWR@DRunning for BrewsSwamp CommonersHub City RunnersDouble Stamp Run Club+ 44 more
Find your club [https://runsignup.com/RaceGroups/77623]Register with your crew [https://runsignup.com/Race/Register/?raceId=77623]
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
Are dogs allowed on the course?
Yes
Can someone else pick up my packet for me?
No
Are headphones or earbuds allowed?
Yes, but be mindful you are on a road, so awareness of your surroundings matters.
Is there race-day registration?
Yes, you can register with your personal mobile device on race day. Note that cell service is limited up here.
Is there gear check or somewhere to leave personal items?
You can store gear and drop bags in your car, which will be about 25 meters from where the race starts and finishes.
Are there restrooms near the start/finish?
Yes, bathrooms are located at the open field adjacent to the start and finish lines.
Will I get a medal or a shirt?
All finishers receive a medal. Race apparel can be added during registration and is mailed directly to you, or you can shop the full collection on our Apparel tab.
What happens if there's bad weather?
Upstate Race Series races run rain or shine. In the event of lightning, extreme heat, or hazardous winter conditions, we'll post an update on this page and email registered runners as early as possible. Entry fees aren't refunded for weather delays see Managing Your Registration below.
Can spectators come watch?
Spectators are welcome. Runner parking fills up race morning if you're only here to cheer, plan for overflow parking nearby.
When will results and photos be available?
Live results post to the RunSignUp results page as each runner finishes. Free event photos are usually up within 4872 hours on our Facebook page we'll tag the album so it's easy to find.
Is there cell service at the venue?
Cell service is limited here make a plan with anyone meeting you post-race before you lose signal.
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. Manage my registration [https://runsignup.com/Profile]
LET'S STAY CONNECTED
Follow along, gear up, and keep up with everything Upstate Race Series
This race
Register [https://runsignup.com/Race/Register/?raceId=77623]
Course map [https://www.strava.com/routes/3270740896365868198]
Directions [https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=123+Hancock+Rd+Sunset+SC+29685]
Race groups [https://runsignup.com/RaceGroups/77623]
Results [https://runsignup.com/Race/Results/77623]
Race photos [https://runsignup.com/Race/Photos/SC/Sunset/SassafrasStruggle]
Race apparel [https://upstateraceseries.myshopify.com/collections/sassafras-8-mile]
Manage my registration [https://runsignup.com/Profile]
Series & giving
Upstate Trail Series [https://runsignup.com/Series/UpstateUltraGetDirty]
Upstate Giving Series [https://upstategivingseries.com/]
The Parenting Place [https://tppupstate.org/]
Colorful Run [https://runsignup.com/Race/SC/Anderson/Andersons1stChildAbusePreventRun]
Donate [https://runsignup.com/Race/Donate/SC/Sunset/SassafrasStruggle]
Upstate Race Series
UpstateRaceSeries.com [https://www.upstateraceseries.com]
Questions? Use the contact form below or tap the chat button in the corner.
Instagram @upstateraceseries [https://www.instagram.com/upstateraceseries]
Facebook: Upstate Event Management [https://www.facebook.com/UpstateEventManagement]
Apparel store [https://upstateraceseries.myshopify.com/]
Races
-
Sassafras Struggle (8mi)
Incl. $3.10 Fee & Event Socks
Sun 7th March 2027 (9:00AM EST)
$38.10
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123 Hancock Rd, Sunset, 29685, SC, United States
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Sassafras 8 Mile Run/Walk
