About This Race
Set within the rugged beauty of Garner State Park in the Texas Hill Country, the Frio Trail Runs showcase some of the state's most challenging and scenic single-track terrain. The race takes runners through rocky, dirt-packed trails that wind along the Frio River and climb toward Old Baldy Mountain, offering a true test of technical trail running skills. The park's limestone formations and dense oak and cypress forests create a distinctive backdrop that sets this race apart from typical Texas flatland events. The course design utilizes a loop-based format, with multiple distance options ranging from 5K to 50K allowing runners of various experience levels to tackle the challenging terrain. Each loop presents runners with technical rock sections, creek crossings, and winding single-track that demands focus and agility. The race starts early at 7:00 AM to help runners beat the Texas heat and maximize their time on the trails. With its location in the popular Garner State Park, the event combines serious trail running with the opportunity to experience one of Texas's premier outdoor destinations. The race draws a field of approximately 500 runners across all distances, creating a vibrant community atmosphere while maintaining the intimate feel that makes this event special among Texas trail races.
The Frio Trail Runs course follows rocky, dirt-packed single-track trails through Garner State Park's diverse terrain. Runners navigate technical limestone sections, traverse creek beds, and wind through dense Hill Country vegetation on trails that showcase the park's natural character. The route includes the signature climb up Old Baldy Mountain, where runners are rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding Texas Hill Country.
The loop-based course design allows for multiple distance options while maintaining the technical and scenic qualities that define the race. Each section presents its own challenges, from navigating root-covered single-track to picking lines through rocky outcroppings, requiring runners to stay focused throughout their chosen distance.
Location
Practical Info
Early March in Texas Hill Country typically offers mild temperatures with possible morning coolness, though conditions can vary from cool and damp to warm and dry.
SAT - San Antonio International Airport
Garner State Park offers camping and cabins, with additional lodging available in nearby Concan and Uvalde.
Best For
Notable Features
The race's standout feature is its setting within Garner State Park, one of Texas's most beloved outdoor destinations, combined with the technical challenge of navigating rocky Hill Country single-track. The climb up Old Baldy Mountain provides both a physical test and scenic reward, while the loop format allows runners to experience the full diversity of the park's terrain multiple times, creating a deeper connection with this distinctive Texas landscape.