Description:

The Headwaters of the Frio Trail Marathon, Half, 12K, 5K is a challenging run/walk event across the rugged and isolated terrain of one of the most beautiful ranches in the Texas Hill Country. We only allow access to this beautiful and unique course once each year. It’s truly a special place and experience!

This event highlights the vital mission of Hill Country Youth Ranch and Big Springs Ranch for Children which work to bring healing and restoration to children who have been victims of abuse, abandonment and neglect. This is a fundraising event in which participants raise $250 or more to directly benefit these children. (Note: your $50 registration fee counts towards the $250 minimum commitment).

The difficulties and obstacles experienced on the course are a metaphor for the “marathon” our children face daily; while the beauty and tranquility of our 7,050 acre ranch will lift your spirit as it does for the children who call this place home.

This is a timed event with 4 categories of participation:

• Marathon runners and walkers 
• Half Marathon runners and walkers 
• 12K runners and walkers 
• 5K runners and walkers

The minimum age to participate in the Marathon is 18. The minimum age for the Half Marathon, 12K, and 5K is 12. The courses are hilly and challenging with uneven surfaces.  You need to be in reasonably good shape, train appropriately for the distance you choose, and be realistic about your capabilities. Marathon participants have the toughest challenge with 8 hours to complete the 26.2 mile course and must finish the first half by 3:45 to progress to the second half of the course.

Note: The Marathon and Half Marathon courses are regulation distances at 26.2 and 13.1 miles respectively. The 12K and 5K courses are both a bit longer than regulation at 12.4K (7.7 miles) and 5.7K (3.5 miles) respectively.

New for 2023: Children under 12 are allowed to accompany parents on the 5K course for no additional fee, provided your child/children stays with you at all times. Well mannered dogs, on a short leash, are allowed on the 5K and 12K courses.

You can sign up as an individual participant, become a sponsor, or start or join a team. Each participant gets a high quality race shirt, medal, and a delicious BBQ lunch. Place medals are given to the 3 top male and female finishers in each race, in multiple age categories, and all participants have the opportunity to win terrific individual and team fundraising prizes.

We go to great lengths to make this a unique, one of a kind experience. The event is limited to just 300 total participants spread out over the 4 courses. We offer the amenities you would expect from a large race, but the uncrowded course has a small race feel.