About This Race
The South Texas Ultra takes runners through the rugged beauty of the Texas Hill Country on the H.W. Lewis Ranch near Leakey. This race offers multiple distances including a challenging 50K, making it accessible to runners across experience levels while maintaining the authentic character of Texas trail running. Set against the backdrop of the Hill Country's distinctive terrain, the race features rocky, dirt, and grass trails that wind through varied topography. The 50K course incorporates over 2,300 feet of elevation gain, providing a substantial challenge across the rolling landscape. The race follows a looped format using a 10.3-mile course, with shorter distances utilizing portions of this route plus a unique 5K path. This October event captures the Hill Country at an ideal time of year, when temperatures moderate from the intense Texas summer. The ranch setting provides an intimate racing experience away from urban distractions, allowing runners to focus on the natural terrain and scenic vistas that define this region of Texas.
The course winds through the H.W. Lewis Ranch on a combination of rocky, dirt, and grass trails characteristic of the Texas Hill Country. The 50K follows a 10.3-mile loop format, allowing for aid station support and spectator access at multiple points throughout the race.
Runners encounter varied terrain including technical rocky sections, rolling grass trails, and dirt paths that showcase the natural beauty of the Hill Country landscape. The 2,300+ feet of elevation gain is distributed across the rolling topography, creating sustained climbs and descents rather than extreme elevation changes.
Practical Info
October in the Texas Hill Country typically offers mild temperatures with highs in the 70s-80s°F and cooler morning starts, ideal conditions after the intense summer heat.
SAT - San Antonio International Airport
Leakey is a small Hill Country town with limited lodging options. San Antonio, approximately 90 minutes southeast, offers extensive accommodation choices.
Best For
Notable Features
The race's setting on a private ranch provides an exclusive trail running experience in authentic Texas Hill Country terrain. The looped course format allows for strategic pacing and crew support, while the variety of distances makes it suitable for runners building toward longer ultras or testing their limits on challenging Texas trails.