Cactus Rose Endurance Trail Race - Cactus Rose 100mi
Also in this race
These events were grouped as one card in discovery—pick another distance or date without going back.
Race facts
- Distances
- 5 mi, 25 mi, 50 mi, 100 mi, 5 mi ruck, 25 mi ruck, Youth 1 mi
- Terrain
- Trail, hilly
- Elevation gain
- 762 m
- Organizer
- Tejas Trails
- Registration
- Open
From the official race website, checked 2026-10-22. Official page
External Event
Distance
100 mi
Pace
All paces
Terrain
Trail, hilly
Difficulty
Challenging
About this run
The Cactus Rose Endurance Trail Race, held annually in Bandera, Texas, is designed to challenge runners with rugged, technical terrain. This event emphasizes an old-school, self-support style, meaning participants are expected to manage their own needs on the course. While medical staff are present, the race encourages self-reliance.
The course offers spectacular views and fun, challenging terrain, but runners are cautioned to stay focused. The organizers intentionally provide less extensive aid stations than usual to enhance the self-sufficiency aspect of the race. This event is a deliberate creation for those seeking a tough and demanding trail running experience.
With a cap of 500 total runners across all distances, the Cactus Rose Endurance Trail Race provides a unique test of endurance and grit. Participants can expect a demanding environment that lives up to its "no whiners, wimps, or wusses" motto.
Who it's for
This event is best suited for experienced trail runners who are comfortable with significant elevation changes, technical footing, and a self-supported race format. The multiple distances offer challenges for various levels of endurance, but the overall nature of the course is demanding.
What to expect
- Packet pickup is available at iRun Texas in San Antonio on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday before the race, and at Hill Country State Natural Area on Friday and Saturday.
- The 100-mile race starts Friday afternoon, with other distances beginning Saturday morning. Be sure to check the specific start times for your chosen distance.
- The course features a main 25-mile loop with a 5-mile loop option. Multiple lap races alternate between clockwise and counter-clockwise directions.
- Expect rocky, technical terrain with significant climbing and descending. The course is well-marked with caution tape and yellow arrows, so navigation is generally straightforward.
- Weather in the Texas Hill Country can vary; check the forecast and be prepared for conditions typical of late October.
Good to know
- The race is capped at 500 total runners across all distances.
- To guarantee a race shirt, register by September 29th.
- The event takes place at Hill Country State Natural Area, located near Bandera, Texas.
Typical conditions
For events around October 2026 in Bandera, TX, United States: Typical autumn conditions in this region — conditions can change quickly; confirm race-day guidance on the official page.
How to prepare
Trail events reward time on uneven surfaces and hills. Practice footing and bring the shoes and hydration the organizer recommends — details vary by race.
Find races near youGetting there
This event is listed in Bandera, TX, United States. Confirm the exact start venue, parking, and transit options on the official registration page.
Frequently asked questions
What are the race dates for the Cactus Rose Endurance Trail Race?+
The race takes place from October 23-25, 2026.
Where is the Cactus Rose Endurance Trail Race held?+
The race is located at Hill Country State Natural Area, 10600 Bandera Creek Rd, Bandera, TX 78003.
What distances are offered?+
Distances include 5 mi, 25 mi, 50 mi, 100 mi, 5 mi ruck, 25 mi ruck, and a Youth 1 mi race.
What is the terrain like?+
The course is characterized by rugged, rocky, and technical trails with significant elevation changes, involving both climbing and descending.
How is the course marked?+
The course is extensively marked with orange caution tape at intersections and yellow arrows on stakes, signposts, fences, and trees, along with confidence markers.
What are the cutoff times?+
The final lap cutoff for the 100-miler is 2:00 PM on Saturday, and for the 50-miler, it's 1:00 AM on Sunday. The course closes at 12:00 PM on Sunday.
How do I register for the race?+
Registration is available through the official Tejas Trails website. Runners should visit https://www.tejastrails.com/cactus for details and to sign up.
Is there a deadline for guaranteed swag?+
Yes, to ensure you receive a race shirt, please register by September 29th.
Registration is handled by the official event organizer
Know a local group? Host a community run in Bandera
Also in this race
- Oct 23, 2026 · 9:00 PM (this one)
- Oct 24, 2026 · 1:00 PM
- Oct 24, 2026 · 1:00 PM
- Oct 24, 2026 · 1:15 PM
- Oct 24, 2026 · 1:15 PM
- Oct 24, 2026 · 1:15 PM
- Oct 24, 2026 · 3:30 PM