About This Race
OUTLAST San Antonio presents a distinctive twist on trail running endurance. Rather than a traditional race against the clock, this six-hour challenge requires runners to complete a 5K loop every hour, on the hour. Miss your window, and you're eliminated. Finish early, and you rest until the next hourly start. The format rewards tactical pacing over pure speed, creating a mental chess match as much as a physical test. The challenge lies not just in covering the distance, but in managing your effort across six consecutive hours. Each lap brings fresh legs back to the starting line, while accumulated fatigue makes each subsequent loop more demanding. Only those who complete all six rounds earn the coveted OUTLAST medal and ranking on the national leaderboard. Set on natural trail terrain with elevation changes and unpredictable conditions, the course demands trail-specific skills. The format creates unique race dynamics, with runners forming temporary alliances and strategies evolving throughout the day. Whether attempting to survive all six laps or competing for the fastest combined time, OUTLAST rewards consistency, mental fortitude, and smart race management over raw speed.
The 5K loop at Land Heritage Institute features natural trail terrain with dirt paths, rocks, roots, and elevation changes typical of Texas Hill Country terrain. The course includes some pavement and gravel sections mixed with singletrack trail. Each lap begins and ends at basecamp, where runners can rest, refuel, and strategize between hourly starts.
With water and basic aid available at the start/finish area, the loop format allows runners to customize their fueling strategy and even set up personal aid stations. The course presents technical challenges that can slow pace unexpectedly, making time management crucial as the hour deadline approaches.
Elevation Profile
Course Map
Route shown is approximate and for illustration purposes. Download GPX file
Aid Stations
1 stations along the course
Basecamp
water, electrolyte, snacks
Located at start/finish area where runners can set up personal aid stations
Practical Info
Late February in San Antonio typically offers mild temperatures in the 50s-60s Fahrenheit with potential for variable conditions.
SAT - San Antonio International Airport
San Antonio offers extensive lodging options throughout the city, with the race location approximately 20 minutes northeast of downtown.
- Hydration system
- Trail shoes
Best For
Notable Features
The hourly elimination format creates a distinct psychological challenge where pacing strategy and mental resilience matter as much as physical fitness. Runners can set up personal aid stations at basecamp, fostering a community atmosphere between the competitive pressure of each timed lap.