2024 Sheltowee Trace Ultras - 50K Course
I signed up for the race with my buddy, Handsome Klatzke, to celebrate his 50th birthday with 50 miles. We both put in a good block of training, but it was an unknown - neither of us had ever run 50 miles before. As of this writing, ONE of us knows what it’s like to run 50 miles, and it ain’t me:-)
2022 Big Turtle 10-Miler
The Big Turtle Trail Races are an annual tradition for me to enjoy the northernmost sections of Sheltowee Trace. There are three distances - 50 miles, 50 kilometers, and 10 miles - and all deliver a great trail running experience with fast and fun downhills and the occasional uphill grind. The 10-Miler is pretty straightforward - a grueling opening climb followed by lots of short-ish ups and downs before finishing downhill back to campus.
Shallow Flats Loop
These wetlands were an entertaining stop with one Canadian goose wreaking havoc upon its neighbors. It was also sunrise part two with the sun cresting above the eastern knobs to provide a gorgeous morning scene.
Sunrise at Twin Knobs Picnic Area
Nearly all the views on Twin Knobs’ shoreline are south or west facing, but this little spot just off a picnic area was perfect for sunrise. Situated between the group campsites and the beach, this little walk was ideal for sunrise.
Twin Knobs Shoreline for Sunset
This was the perfect way to close out a great day on the trails around Cave Run Lake. Sunset was beautiful, and all the views along the shoreline leading to that moment were fantastic. This is an easy hike that can be made much shorter with the many connector trails from the various campground loops.
Twin Knobs Out and Back
Back in the day, this used to have a tower on it. Not anymore:-) What remains is a nice fitness trail to the top of the west knob of the Twin Knobs Recreation Area. With steady elevation gain, it’s ideal for hill training and makes a super cool GPS map on your fitness app.
Eagle Lake Loop
Eagle Lake is a beautiful patch of water on the north side of Morehead State University’s campus. This is a nice trail to stretch the legs whenever visiting town and is the first trail town stop for Sheltowee Trace southbounders.
Martin Branch Out and Back
This is a great fitness trail with plenty of elevation gain to get you ready for some mountain hiking. It also has a fascinating tree that had a burl break open. No views, no arches, no waterfalls - just a nice cardio and strength building trail going from holler to ridge and back.
Rodburn Hollow Loop
When it comes to municipal parks, this one is a gem! A nice, short path with a little ruggedness set in the holler:-) There were plenty of wildflowers on display, a playful creek, and all the facilities you’d expect. Stop in for a quick walk or add Martin Branch Trail to get the heart rate up.
2021 Big Turtle 10 Miler Race Recap
I look forward to this race every year - great race, great town, and great beer! The course is challenging, but very runnable, and the town of Morehead is on the come up. As trail towns go, this one checks all the boxes, and in terms of races, this is an ideal Spring tune-up with wildflowers, dogwoods, and redbuds setting the scene.