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Race guide · Texas, USA
How to train for Rocky Raccoon
Runnable 20-mile loops through the East Texas pines, and one of the most popular first 100-milers. Here's what to know and how to get ready.
Next race Feb 6–7, 2027
| Distance | Climb | Time limit | Start | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 100 Mile | 100 mi | ~6,250 ft | 32 h | Sat 6:00 AM |
| 100K | 62 mi | ~3,750 ft | – | Sat 7:00 AM |
Both distances run on 20-mile loops at Huntsville State Park (five loops for the 100-miler; the 100K adds a 2-mile short lap to three).
What makes it hard
Roots, not rocks
The trail is soft and pine-needled, but tree roots are everywhere, and they catch tired feet.
Train for it: Long runs on rooty forest trail, and practise picking your feet up late in a run.
Almost all runnable
With about 1,250 ft of climbing per loop, you'll run nearly everything, which tires your legs in a different way.
Train for it: Long runs at a steady effort, and practise a run-walk rhythm you can hold for hours.
Loops and the night
The 100-miler is five laps, much of it in the dark, and you pass the finish area every loop.
Train for it: Night runs with your headlamp, and a plan for each lap so it's easy to keep going.
How long to train
Plan on 20–24 weeks for the 100-miler and 16–20 for the 100K if you're already running 4–5 days a week.
Get a plan built around race day
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Is Rocky Raccoon a good first 100 miler?
It's one of the most popular first 100s: runnable loops with only about 1,250 ft of climbing per 20 miles and a 32-hour limit. Roots and repetition are what catch people out.
When is Rocky Raccoon 2027?
February 6–7, 2027: the 100-miler starts Saturday at 6:00 AM and the 100K at 7:00 AM, according to the organiser. Always confirm on the official race site.
Race facts checked October 2, 2026 against tejastrails.com. Confirm dates and rules with the organiser. Vert.run is not affiliated with the race.