Race Description

Update: As of today, Monday September 26, 2016 we went ahead and placed the order for the race t-shirts. If you did not register before now, there will be a limited number and limited sizes of shirts available to purchase for $12.

Part of the Heritage Trail Days Festival (see below), this beautiful autumn trail race takes place in Big South Fork National River & Recreation Area in Stearns, KY. The course is both challenging and wildly scenic. The course follows the Blue Heron Loop Trail starting and ending in the Blue Heron Mining Community on the banks of the Big South Fork Cumberland River. The course features gorge overlooks, river views with Class IV whitewater rapids, rock overhangs, waterfalls, sandstone bluffs, and even historic abandoned coal mines. Several wooden step ladders appear throughout the course that runners will have to traverse including the a cave-like passage called “Crack-in-the-Rock”. The course starts with a challenging uphill climb of close to 775 feet within the first 1.5 miles offering runners of all ages and experience both a challenging and enjoyably scenic race.

Registration & Fees

Race Fee
$10 - $15 after August 31st, 2016

Registration Information

• All race registrations will be taken ONLINE ONLY via Ultrasignup.com
• There will be no onsite race day registration or sales. However, WiFi is available at Blue Heron and you may still register online up to 30 minutes before the race start on October 8th using your mobile device.
• We do not offer refunds or transfers

Race Schedule

Saturday, October 8th
9:00-9:45am - Packet Pick-Up and Race Day Registration at Train Depot at Blue Heron Mining Community
10:00am - Race Start
12:30pm - Podium Ceremony (1st - 3rd Male & Female Overall)

*If top finishers are not able to stay for the awards ceremony awards may be mailed at participant's expense.

Packet Pick-Up
Packet pick-up will be from 9:00-9:45pm on Saturday. We will shut down race day packet pick-up 15 minutes before the start. You may also pick your packet up after onsite after the race. Race packets will not be mailed.

Course Information

Cup-free This is a cup-free race. Each runner is responsible for bringing his/her own reusable cup or water bottle.

Course Description Click HERE for the detailed course description.

Cut-Off Times Runners must reach the aid station at mile 3.4 in 1 hour. This is a 17:38 pace per mile. For the safety of all race staff and participants, the race cut-off time will be strictly enforced.

Aid Station There will be one fully stocked aid station midway on the 10K as well as snacks and drinks at the finish.

Accomodations & Directions

Lodging & Camping Click HERE for a list of suggested hotel and campground accommodations in the nearby area.

Driving Directions Click HERE for Google Maps directions from US Highway 27 in Stearns, KY.

Race Policies

The purpose of these policies is to ensure the run’s integrity as well as for the safety of all those involved. Violations of any rules or directives may be grounds for disqualification.

• Each runner’s official run bib number must be worn prominently on the front of the body and must be easily visible at all times.


• Runners must follow the marked trails at all times. Any runner departing from the official trail must return to the point of departure on foot before continuing.


• Littering of any kind is prohibited. Please respect the trails and the right of everyone to enjoy them.


• Runners must refrain from any act of bad sportsmanship.

Registration changes/transfers
Entry fees are non-refundable; race numbers and entries cannot be transferred to another year or person. No exceptions. This means once we have received your entry, you will not receive a refund if you cannot participate, or if the event is cancelled because of weather, natural disaster or other unforeseen circumstances.

Heritage Trail Days Festival Weekend

Heritage Trail Days is a three day festival presented by McCreary County Tourism from October 6th through 9th. The festival features trail & outdoor activities including the Heritage Trail Days 10K trail race, guided hikes, mountain bike ride, and a canoe race. This three day event also includes food vendors, crafts, live music and more! Something for the entire family! Visit the Heritage Trail Days Facebook page for more information.

Event's current local time: 9:13 AM ET