Twisted Ankle Trail Race Celebrates 20 Years at James H. “Sloppy” Floyd State Park

Trail runners from across the Southeast are invited to lace up for the 20th annual Twisted Ankle Trail Race at James H. “Sloppy” Floyd State Park, as the popular event celebrates two decades of racing and giving back to the park.

To mark the milestone, organizers are adding a special 20-mile race for 2026 only, giving participants the chance to make two climbs to Becky’s Bluff. The race lineup also includes a beginner-friendly 5K, a challenging 10-mile, and a half marathon, offering options for runners of all experience levels.

The scenic courses feature a mix of wide trails, single-track sections, Marble Mine, and the iconic climb to Becky’s Bluff, where runners will enjoy a stretch along the Pinhoti Trail before descending. Organizers say the courses include plenty of rocks and roots, providing the technical challenge trail runners have come to expect.

Since its beginning, the Twisted Ankle Trail Race has donated all proceeds to James H. “Sloppy” Floyd State Park, helping support improvements and preservation efforts.

Additional race information, course maps and registration details are available at twistedanklerace.com.

Run for the Trees: “Happy Little 5K” Encourages Outdoor Fun While Supporting Georgia’s Forests

Friends of Georgia State Parks & Historic Sites is inviting outdoor enthusiasts to take part in the Run for the Trees: Happy Little 5K, a Bob Ross-inspired virtual event scheduled for April 18–26, 2026. Participants can complete 3.1 miles anywhere outdoors—running, walking, hiking, rolling, biking, skating, or paddling—at their own pace and in the location of their choice.

Locally, the event is being highlighted by the Friends of Sloppy Floyd State Park in Summerville, who encourage residents to take advantage of nearby trails and natural spaces while supporting conservation efforts. Registration costs $36 and includes a Happy Little T-shirt, commemorative bib number, sticker, and a Bob Ross-inspired finisher medal.

Timed between Earth Day and Arbor Day, the event helps raise awareness about the importance of healthy forests, with proceeds supporting tree planting and forest protection projects across Georgia’s State Parks. More information and registration details are available at friendsofgastateparks.org/HappyLittle5K.