The Dirt Dash

Welcome to the Dirt Dash, an exhilarating trail running adventure nestled within Johns Island’s captivating Lowcountry landscapes. This beloved race has found a new home with Palmetto Ultras and is proudly presented by The Foot Store. Participants will embark on a scenic journey through lush meadows, winding trails, and ancient oaks draped in Spanish moss.
The event kicks off at the picturesque Johns Island County Park, where runners are greeted by serene surroundings and well-groomed paths that wind through open fields and dense woodlands. This challenging yet rewarding course offers varying terrains to cater to all levels of trail runners—from beginners looking for a scenic adventure to seasoned athletes seeking an intense challenge.
Race distances include the 5K (one loop), 10K (two loops), Half Marathon (four loops), and Full Marathon (eight loops). Each lap is approximately 3.3 miles, allowing participants to restock on essentials at the fully stocked aid station located near the start/finish line every few kilometers.
Pre-race festivities include packet pickup at The Foot Store in Mount Pleasant from September 10th between 11:00 AM and 6:00 PM or race morning starting at 6:30 AM. Camping is available on-site, complete with a bath house featuring real bathrooms and showers for those looking to spend the night before the event.
The aid station offers an array of snacks including gummy candy, chips, pretzels, water, electrolyte drinks, and more, ensuring runners are well-fueled throughout their journey. Additionally, coffee and breakfast pastries will be available in the morning, with hot dogs and hamburgers served during lunchtime onwards.
All race distances start promptly at 8:00 AM on September 12th, with a cutoff time of seven hours for all participants to complete their chosen distance by 3:00 PM. Early registrants (by August 19th) receive exclusive swag, including t-shirts designed by local artist Marcus Cripps and custom finisher’s medals upon completion.
For those looking to extend the experience beyond racing, camping on-site allows runners to fully immerse themselves in the event atmosphere before setting off into the trails. Volunteers can earn discounts or free race entries through their contributions, enhancing community engagement and support among participants.
Join us for a day of camaraderie, breathtaking scenery, and unforgettable trail running at the Dirt Dash!