Step Up for Wish Kids: Make-A-Wish South Carolina Opens 2026 Trailblaze Challenge Registration

Make-A-Wish South Carolina is now accepting registrations for the 2026 Trailblaze Challenge, inviting hikers statewide to take on a powerful endurance-meets-purpose experience that helps grant life-changing wishes for children facing critical illnesses.

Trailblaze is more than a long hike. Participants commit to months of training, to a meaningful fundraising goal, and ultimately to completing a 20-plus-mile trek — including the program’s original 28.3-mile Foothills Trail hike — on some of South Carolina’s most scenic trails. Every step and every dollar bring hope, joy, and strength to wish kids and their families.

Since the first Trailblaze Challenge in 2015, hikers have raised millions to help Make-A-Wish SC deliver unforgettable experiences to children who need the magic of a wish most.

A Laurens County Connection from the Beginning

Laurens County has a longstanding place in the Trailblaze story. In the inaugural 2015 28.3-mile hike, Susan Tallman and Brenda Stewart both participated, helping launch a program that has grown into one of Make-A-Wish South Carolina’s most successful fundraising efforts. In the years since, additional members of the Tallman family have continued hiking and volunteering, strengthening the family’s connection to the organization.

Their involvement extends far beyond the trail. Members of the Tallman family—including Wish Specialist Ellie Tallman and longtime board member Jeff Tallman—have played important roles in helping grant wishes and supporting Make-A-Wish SC’s mission statewide. Their service exemplifies the deep commitment that began with taking those first miles on the Foothills Trail and has continued through years of leadership and support.

How to Join the 2026 Trailblaze Challenge

Make-A-Wish SC is currently hosting informational sessions in the Upstate and Midlands, with the official training season beginning in January and hike weekends scheduled for April (Midlands) and May (Upstate). Hikers receive:

•A full training program

•Group hikes and support

•Fundraising tools

•A fully supported hike weekend with aid stations and transportation

Trailblaze is open to beginner and experienced hikers alike — anyone willing to train, fundraise, and step forward for kids who need the hope that a wish provides.

A Call to Action

If you’re looking for a meaningful challenge in 2026, Trailblaze offers a chance to push your limits, join a mission-driven community, and help bring life-changing moments to children across South Carolina. Laurens County has been part of the Trailblaze story since day one — and now, you can be part of what comes next.

For more information or to register, visit their website.