Headwaters of the Frio Trail Marathon, Half, 12K & 5K

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 stunningly beautiful ranches in the Texas Hill Country. This annual 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 horrific abuse, abandonment and neglect.

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 the children who call this place home.

This is truly a special event, and we’re looking for a special kind of participant! If you’re the kind of person who finds joy and fulfillment in physical challenges like marathons, half marathons, 10K’s, or 5K’s, whether running or walking, AND have a heart to help kids by supporting worthy nonprofits like Hill Country Youth Ranch / Big Springs Ranch for Children, you’re just the kind of person we’re looking for! Plan now to join us this April!

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.

Younger children are allowed to accompany a parent on the 5K course for no additional fee, provided a 1:1 parent child ratio is maintained.

You can sign up as an individual participant 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.