Hells Hills Trail Race
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Event details
Hells Hills Trail Race takes place on April 4, 2026 at Rocky Hill Ranch in Smithville, Texas (578 FM 153, Smithville, TX 78957). Distances offered include:
- 50 miles
- 50 km
- 25 km
- 10 km
- 25 km Ruck
- 10 km Ruck
- Youth 1-mile (open to ages 1–12; untimed, bib and finisher medal)
Chip timing is used with ankle-mounted chips picked up race morning. Overall awards will be given for Top 3 male and Top 3 female, plus Top Masters male and female (50 and up). The event is part of the Tejas multi-race challenges.
Course and race logistics
The course is single-track with bridges, stream crossings, pine stands, and fields of wildflowers. Route details: the 10 km and 25 km are single laps; the 50 km is two laps of about 15.5 miles; the 50 mile uses three laps of about 16.67 miles. Terrain includes many short, steep hills and rolling sections; there are a few longer runnable stretches.
Course markings include orange caution tape, yellow directional arrows, hundreds of confidence markers, and reflective markers for dark hours. Aid provisions: two full on-course aid stations plus a start/finish "Saloon," a self-support station with water/ice/Tailwind, and an additional temporary 10 km water/snack station. Supplies are placed approximately every 2.8 to 4.5 miles. The race is cupless; runners must carry their own drinking vessel. Ruck division rules require mandatory weighed rucks (20 lb if under 150 lb; 30 lb if 150 lb or more), weigh-in at packet pickup and finish, and no trekking poles. Pacers and pacer rules apply as stated for 50-mile and older runners. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.