
Broad River Half Marathon Run/Hike
Broad River Half Marathon offers a Thanksgiving trail run through Harbison State Forest.
Race Date
Nov 21, 2026
Location
Columbia, SC
Quick facts
- Date
- Saturday, November 21, 2026
- Location
- Columbia, South Carolina
- Distance
- Half marathon (13.1 mi)
- Course
- Loop Course
- Terrain
- Trail
- USATF certified
- Not listed
- Finishers on record
- 255
Highlights
Good For
Atmosphere
Course
The Experience
This Thanksgiving, the Broad River Half Marathon invites runners to celebrate community and gratitude amidst the vibrant autumn colors of Harbison State Forest. The course winds through shady woodlands, crosses tranquil streams, and navigates rolling hills, offering a challenging yet inspiring trail experience.
With a growing field that has recently seen around 298 finishers from approximately 14 states, the event fosters a welcoming atmosphere for all levels, from first-timers to seasoned trail runners. The race, now in its second edition, is set within a scenic forest environment, promising a festive day of camaraderie and a post-race Thanksgiving-style Southern meal.
Runners can expect a course that blends natural beauty with a rewarding challenge. The event's focus on community and gratitude makes it a unique way to celebrate the holiday season on the trails.
Race-provided description
Midland Mountain Trail Series: A Thanksgiving Trail Celebration This Thanksgiving season, join us in celebrating the spirit of community, gratitude, and the joy of running with our Midland Mountain Trail Series—a festive day of trail running through the scenic beauty of Harbison State Forest. It's a gathering of friends, families, and fellow trail lovers giving thanks for strong legs, open trails, and the people we share them with. As autumn paints the forest in vibrant hues of red, orange, and gold, you’ll wind through shady woodlands, cross tranquil streams, and conquer rolling hills on a course that challenges and inspires. With every step, you’ll be surrounded not only by the beauty of nature but also by a welcoming, supportive community of runners. Whether you're chasing a new PR or simply enjoying the trail at your own pace, you’re part of something special. At the heart of this event is a celebration of what we’re most thankful for—the people who make the trail running community so meaningful. Everyone from first-timers to ultra veterans will feel the warmth of race-day camaraderie. And when your miles are done, we’ll welcome you back with a post-race Thanksgiving-style Southern meal—a hearty “meat and three” served with gratitude and a smile. 🦃 Event Details
What: Broad River Half Marathon
Start Time: 8:30 AM
Where: Harbison State Forest
Address: 5600 Broad River Road, Columbia, SC 29212
Packet Pickup: Race morning starting at 7:00 AM under the gazebo at the Start/Finish area.
🥾 Course Description
Harbison State Forest is a hidden gem tucked just outside Columbia, SC. Spanning over 2,000 acres along the Broad River, it offers a network of diverse, well-maintained trails perfect for our fall celebration. You’ll run through tall pines and hardwoods, cross peaceful creeks, and take on varied elevation—challenging enough to keep it interesting but welcoming for all experience levels. Each trail section immerses you in the sights and sounds of fall in the Carolinas. Expect crunching leaves underfoot, crisp autumn air, and sweeping views lit by golden foliage. The course is well-marked, easy to follow, and absolutely packed with seasonal charm.
Course Map on Strava
Personal Tent Set-Up & Drop Bags
You're welcome to bring a drop bag or set up a small personal tent near the Start/Finish area and main aid station. Please be mindful to keep your gear clear of the course and respect others’ space. When the day is done, help us keep the forest beautiful by cleaning up your area. Leave no trace—only good vibes. Aid Stations
We’ll have 3 aid stations along the course, stocked with runner-friendly snacks and drinks, including: Pickles, cookies, chips, fig newtons, assorted candy & pretzels Hydration: water, Coke, and ginger ale This is a cupless event—please bring your own hydration flask or cup. Want to bring a little something to share? Homemade treats or favorite snacks are always welcome at our community table. Aid Station 1 – Mile 4.8 Aid Station 2 – Mile 11 Aid Station 3 – Start/Finish Line Area
📍 Directions & Parking
Use the following address to access the forest: 5600 Broad River Road, Columbia, SC 29212 Once inside, follow the event signage and volunteers directing you to the parking area adjacent to the gazebo near the Start/Finish line. When you are parking alongside the road please stay on the LEFT side and park directly behind the car in front of you. Parking on both sides of the road is DANGEROUS and we WILL TOW your vehicle to prevent any potential road block for EMS teams.
Logistics
Race Day
Saturday, November 21, 2026
Start Time
8:30 AM
Start Location
5600 Broad River Road, Columbia, SC, 29212
Course Info
Course Type
Loop Course
Terrain
trail
Scenery
Forest
Surface
Dirt Trail
Difficulty
Rolling Hills
Net Drop/km
0 m (Flat)
Separation
0.0%
Quality Score
Solid Pick492 years running
~203 finishers a year
growing or steady
9% returning runners
5 timing sources
runners from 14 states
winner 1:40:17
typical high 65°F
Race Day Weather
5-year historical avgStart (Low)
45°
Afternoon (High)
65°
Pleasant conditions — light layers at start, comfortable by finish
0.0"
Precipitation
9 mph
Wind
66%
Humidity
Historical Finish Times
How 255 finishers actually crossed the line across 2 years.
Most recent
2025
Total finishers
255
Median time
2:41:20
Latest turnout
152
States
16
Turnout by year
2024–2025
Hover the histogram to inspect specific finish times.
Race Photos
Frequently asked
When is the Broad River Half Marathon Run/Hike?
The Broad River Half Marathon Run/Hike is held on Saturday, November 21, 2026, starting at 8:30 AM.
Where does the Broad River Half Marathon Run/Hike take place?
It takes place in Columbia, South Carolina.
What distances does the Broad River Half Marathon Run/Hike offer?
The half marathon (13.1 miles).
Is the Broad River Half Marathon Run/Hike course flat and good for a PR?
The Broad River Half Marathon Run/Hike is a rolling hills, loop course course.
How many people run the Broad River Half Marathon Run/Hike?
HalfRuns has finish records for 255 runners who have completed the Broad River Half Marathon Run/Hike.
HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.
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