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Marathon Details - Otter Creek Trail Marathon

North America Marathons > USA > KY > Brandenburg > Otter Creek Trail Marathon

Otter Creek Trail Marathon

Otter Creek Trail Marathon & 16 Mile, 8 Mile

Brandenburg, KY USA

December 16, 2023

http://www.headfirstperformance.com

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Race Details

The run will be on the Otter Creek Trail Loop. This loop is very scenic and runnable. Start/Finish at the Otter Creek Nature Center.

Contact Information

Name:	Todd or Cynthia Heady
Address:	7024 Buckcreek Rd Finchville, KY 40022
Phone Number:	502-550-9553
Email:	Email the organizers

Runner Reviews (29)

Course 4.3

Organization 4.7

Spectators 3.1

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Number of comments: 29 [displaying comments 1 to 11]

More Comments: [ < 1 2 3 > ]

R. L. from Wisconsin (12/21/2015) "A low-key marathon on a beautiful course" (about: 2015) 50+ previous marathons \| 1 Otter Creek Trail Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 1 I've run trail marathons before, so about the only surprise the course held for me was just how pretty it was. The section along Otter Creek was very nice, and the view of the Ohio River at the north end was outstanding. If you are running the marathon for time, you want to start near the front. The course begins on a campground road, but after about 300 yards, it makes a hard left onto the single track trail. I started mid-pack, and had to walk for about 20 seconds at the turn, while the runners got into single file. There were some areas to pass through the first 5 miles, but not many, so there was a lot of 'follow the pack'. However, by the aid station at about 5 miles it had thinned out enough that it wasn't an issue. After the first loop, it's a different run. I was basically alone the rest of the way - I saw two other runners on the second loop, and maybe eight or ten on the third loop (including lapping some of the 16 mile runners). For a trail marathon, the course is one that you can run most of. We had perfect race weather in 2015 - sunny, dry and in the 30's, so the footing was great. There is one long downhill at about mile 3 of each loop heading down into the Otter Creek Valley, and a long uphill at about mile 6. Outside of that, it was level or gently rolling. You do have to watch your footing - there are countless rocks and roots to trip you up, and a number of runners had falls. It's primarily a local event and that was reflected in the race organization. Everything was friendly and casual - no stress at the start, and a chili cook-off for the post-race food. I'm from out of state so I probably won't be back. If I were local, this would be on my list every year.
P. E. from Fort Knox, KY (12/19/2015) "Good race through the wilderness, and very tough." (about: 2015) 3 previous marathons \| 1 Otter Creek Trail Marathon COURSE: 3 ORGANIZATION: 4 FANS: 3 Tough run, but enjoyed the scenery on this 8.5 mile loop. The trail was marked OK, but there were a couple points in the trail that were not marked where one could veer off in the wrong direction. There is one part of the trail (about a half mile) where you can actually run with your eyes up. The rest of the 8 miles are filled with roots, rocks and stumps, but hey, it is a trail race. I bit it a couple times when drinking from my hand held bottle. There are a lot of rolling hills, and a very steep hill (pretty close to a mile) somewhere between mile 4 & 6 of the loop. Recommend walking it all three times. I tried running it two times, and sapped a lot of my energy. Also do not recommend this marathon to someone running his/her first marathon, since the trail is quite treacherous, and a lot of slowing down and speeding up due to a lot of runners and a narrow path. Only two water points, so drink from your water source wisely.
T. N. from Louisville,KY (1/22/2015) "Not my finest hour(s)!!" (about: 2014) 3 previous marathons \| 1 Otter Creek Trail Marathon COURSE: 4 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 3 This is a great trail, easy compared to Bernheim or Siltstone. I was shooting for under 6 hours but at mile 5 a single looper passed and shoved me to the side causing me to turn my right ankle. I ran/hobbled the last 21 miles. DNF is not in my vocabulary!! Loved it anyway, just wish people had better trail etiquette.
J. T. from Melbourne, Australia (12/21/2014) "Watch where you put your feet" (about: 2014) 50+ previous marathons \| 1 Otter Creek Trail Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 3 FANS: 5 This is a surprisingly beautiful trail race in a locals-only sort of place. It was hard to work out where to find the park but once I got there I loved the trail. Al though you had to watch the ground all the time to avoid tripping on tree roots and rocks which were lurking under the thick leaf litter. Lots of people fell. This year it was cold, I've never run a marathon this cold but the forecast rain and snow didn't eventuate. The event is mainly for the runners doing only one loop of the three, so the first loop I found quite unpleasant on the narrow trail, I constantly had to get off the trail to let runners pass. I think the runners doing only one loop should start earlier so they aren't frustrated by the marathoners, who would naturally run slower. The second and third loops I really enjoyed especially the views of the Ohio River bend.
B. B. from Louisville, KY (2/15/2013) "Down & dirty fun" (about: 2012) 1 previous marathon \| 1 Otter Creek Trail Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 4 If you want tons of spectators and glossy pics of your achievement, this is not the marathon for you. Nor if you want water & ice every mile marker. Support available every 4 miles. Be advised of the usual trail hazards turned ankles, falls, lots and lots of mud. Beautiful scenery, a challenging course and great post-race dinner make this a run I'll try again.
J. T. from Waukegan, IL (12/26/2012) "Fun & Challenging Trail Marathon" (about: 2012) 11-50 previous marathons \| 1 Otter Creek Trail Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 3 I enjoyed this trail race. It was challenging and I won't recommended for a 1st marathon. The course consisted of running a 8.5mile loop 3 times. The loop itself was a single-track trail with a long downhill that had a switchback, a flat section along a river, and a long uphill. There were logs, roots, sand, stones, rocks, etc. This year, it rained and the trail got muddy. It was my first trail marathon, and I appreciated the familiarity with the trail after the 1st loop. Ran with my road shoes (Brooks Adrenalin) and I had reasonably good traction. Saw others with trail shoes, but they seems to have similar traction issues that I had (it got quite muddy). Nonethless, if you have trail shoes, I'd recommend it. The race was chip-timed, and your time would be slow. It was obvious that the organizers, Cynthia and Todd have been doing this for a while. The trail was extremely well-marked. There were 2 aid stations with assorted foods, Heed drink and water, located at start and at mid-point of the loop. (I had a water-bottle.) Warning about fan support: don't do this race if you need them. The post-race food and drinks were diverse and plentiful. They had a tent and a fire to keep warm. The medal was a wooden Christmas ornament, which now hangs proudly on my tree. Stayed at Golden Manor Inn, which I recommend. Overall, a fun race.
B. L. from Nashville, TN (12/23/2012) "Fantastic Race!" (about: 2012) 2 previous marathons \| 1 Otter Creek Trail Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 3 This trail marathon was awesome! There was a ton of breakfast food & drink before the race with a nice bonfire to keep the hands warm, all in a very nice park setting. There was a short stretch of road to thin the crowd out before heading into the woods. After a pleasant start the rain came and the trails proved to be very slippery indeed. Lots of runners went down, especially the ones who ran in road shoes. At one point I was going way too fast down a hill, slid out of control. Nearly kissed a tree. Brushed it off and slowed down a bit after that! Seemed that most runners elected to run the 8 or 16 mile distance, which was 1 or two loops, respectively. There was excellent support from the two aid stations which were spaced out along the 8 mile loop. Lots of options for fuel. Best part came at the end. The FOOD WAS INCREDIBLE! I couldn't stop eating the chili and the soup. Couldn't have made it better myself. Had 3 bowls. Very nice touch to have the race director at the fire serving up the steaming hot chili! Would highly recommend this race to anyone who loves to run the trails. Bring your appetite!
K. A. from Philadelphia, PA (12/19/2011) "Tough trail & poor organization = bad race" (about: 2011) 11-50 previous marathons COURSE: 2 ORGANIZATION: 2 FANS: 3 Don't run this marathon unless you are a very expereinced trail runner! The website described it as 'very runnable' - but that is NOT TRUE. The line of runners backed up whenever there was an obstacle on the trail (e.g. huge tree trunks to crawl over, fallen limbs that were too high to jump, 1-foot wide path along a 30-ft drop into the river, steep ascents that people walked up, etc.), so we stood and/or walked in several parts. You definitely cannot run your own pace - you are at the mercy of the other runners and the narrow trail. I'm normally a 3:35-4:05 marathoner, but this course took me 5:10. I chose it because I'm a 50-stater and wanted to cross KY off my list. I'd recommend ANY OTHER race in KY over this one!! Cons: * Very tough trail with several steep ascents and plenty of rocks/roots etc. to trip over * Only 2 water stations on this loop course - 1 ran out of food and the other closed before I got there!! * The website provides no info on the course elevation * No marathoners stuck around post-race. Everyone got in their cars and drove away (I wonder if everyone else was thinking 'good riddance' to this course the same way I was.) * There are plenty of roots etc. to trip over on this course. I fell hard on my final loop and when I crossed the finish line and asked for medical help, I was told the woman working the grill was an RN and could help me when she was done cooking. (Seriously?!) * All in all, it's a dangerous trail. If you got hurt on the trail, I think it would be a LONG time before you got any help * I saw people run off trail because it wasn't clearly marked * The medal was a wooden circle that didn't list the distance (probably because they used the same one for the 8 and 16 mile races). Same with the shirt. * I'm wondering what my $70 entry fee paid for?! Pros: * pretty scenery (if you can take your eyes off the trail)
D. I. from Gainesville, Florida (12/15/2008) "WOW! What an experience!" (about: 2008) 11-50 previous marathons COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 5 This marathon was truly one of the most difficult things that I have ever done! I gave the course 5 stars because it is beautiful and well marked, but it is VERY challenging. Narrow, muddy trails... rocks... roots, but spectacular views. I had to really watch the trail... yes, I fell in the mud... so I missed a lot of the scenery! The organization is outstanding. Thanks to the very dedicated race directors! There is no place for spectators, but the volunteers at the two aid stations are wonderful! A great and friendly group, a beautiful place, but a most difficult marathon! I'm glad that I took the challenge!
Susie Solomon from Dayton, Ohio (12/15/2008) "Brutal Beauty" (about: 2008) 11-50 previous marathons \| 1 Otter Creek Trail Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 2 Wow, this was most likely the last year for this event and the park. That is very sad. Ok, so there really aren't ANY spectators, but that really isn't what you should be looking for on a trail marathon. The course was the most brutal thing I have ever done to myself. But also the most rewarding. Finishing that last loop and crossing the finish line was sublime. You know you earned that one. I wouldn't have made it without my new friend Deb. Her determination kept me going. Nor would I have made it without Tim. When the water stop was abandoned by the youngsters, Tim was able to meet us at the top of the last cliff with water. I am truly blessed to know such great people. Thank you, Cynthia and Todd.

More Comments: [ < 1 2 3 > ]



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R. L. from Wisconsin (12/21/2015) "A low-key marathon on a beautiful course" (about: 2015) 50+ previous marathons \| 1 Otter Creek Trail Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 1 I've run trail marathons before, so about the only surprise the course held for me was just how pretty it was. The section along Otter Creek was very nice, and the view of the Ohio River at the north end was outstanding. If you are running the marathon for time, you want to start near the front. The course begins on a campground road, but after about 300 yards, it makes a hard left onto the single track trail. I started mid-pack, and had to walk for about 20 seconds at the turn, while the runners got into single file. There were some areas to pass through the first 5 miles, but not many, so there was a lot of 'follow the pack'. However, by the aid station at about 5 miles it had thinned out enough that it wasn't an issue. After the first loop, it's a different run. I was basically alone the rest of the way - I saw two other runners on the second loop, and maybe eight or ten on the third loop (including lapping some of the 16 mile runners). For a trail marathon, the course is one that you can run most of. We had perfect race weather in 2015 - sunny, dry and in the 30's, so the footing was great. There is one long downhill at about mile 3 of each loop heading down into the Otter Creek Valley, and a long uphill at about mile 6. Outside of that, it was level or gently rolling. You do have to watch your footing - there are countless rocks and roots to trip you up, and a number of runners had falls. It's primarily a local event and that was reflected in the race organization. Everything was friendly and casual - no stress at the start, and a chili cook-off for the post-race food. I'm from out of state so I probably won't be back. If I were local, this would be on my list every year.
P. E. from Fort Knox, KY (12/19/2015) "Good race through the wilderness, and very tough." (about: 2015) 3 previous marathons \| 1 Otter Creek Trail Marathon COURSE: 3 ORGANIZATION: 4 FANS: 3 Tough run, but enjoyed the scenery on this 8.5 mile loop. The trail was marked OK, but there were a couple points in the trail that were not marked where one could veer off in the wrong direction. There is one part of the trail (about a half mile) where you can actually run with your eyes up. The rest of the 8 miles are filled with roots, rocks and stumps, but hey, it is a trail race. I bit it a couple times when drinking from my hand held bottle. There are a lot of rolling hills, and a very steep hill (pretty close to a mile) somewhere between mile 4 & 6 of the loop. Recommend walking it all three times. I tried running it two times, and sapped a lot of my energy. Also do not recommend this marathon to someone running his/her first marathon, since the trail is quite treacherous, and a lot of slowing down and speeding up due to a lot of runners and a narrow path. Only two water points, so drink from your water source wisely.
T. N. from Louisville,KY (1/22/2015) "Not my finest hour(s)!!" (about: 2014) 3 previous marathons \| 1 Otter Creek Trail Marathon COURSE: 4 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 3 This is a great trail, easy compared to Bernheim or Siltstone. I was shooting for under 6 hours but at mile 5 a single looper passed and shoved me to the side causing me to turn my right ankle. I ran/hobbled the last 21 miles. DNF is not in my vocabulary!! Loved it anyway, just wish people had better trail etiquette.
J. T. from Melbourne, Australia (12/21/2014) "Watch where you put your feet" (about: 2014) 50+ previous marathons \| 1 Otter Creek Trail Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 3 FANS: 5 This is a surprisingly beautiful trail race in a locals-only sort of place. It was hard to work out where to find the park but once I got there I loved the trail. Al though you had to watch the ground all the time to avoid tripping on tree roots and rocks which were lurking under the thick leaf litter. Lots of people fell. This year it was cold, I've never run a marathon this cold but the forecast rain and snow didn't eventuate. The event is mainly for the runners doing only one loop of the three, so the first loop I found quite unpleasant on the narrow trail, I constantly had to get off the trail to let runners pass. I think the runners doing only one loop should start earlier so they aren't frustrated by the marathoners, who would naturally run slower. The second and third loops I really enjoyed especially the views of the Ohio River bend.
B. B. from Louisville, KY (2/15/2013) "Down & dirty fun" (about: 2012) 1 previous marathon \| 1 Otter Creek Trail Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 4 If you want tons of spectators and glossy pics of your achievement, this is not the marathon for you. Nor if you want water & ice every mile marker. Support available every 4 miles. Be advised of the usual trail hazards turned ankles, falls, lots and lots of mud. Beautiful scenery, a challenging course and great post-race dinner make this a run I'll try again.
J. T. from Waukegan, IL (12/26/2012) "Fun & Challenging Trail Marathon" (about: 2012) 11-50 previous marathons \| 1 Otter Creek Trail Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 3 I enjoyed this trail race. It was challenging and I won't recommended for a 1st marathon. The course consisted of running a 8.5mile loop 3 times. The loop itself was a single-track trail with a long downhill that had a switchback, a flat section along a river, and a long uphill. There were logs, roots, sand, stones, rocks, etc. This year, it rained and the trail got muddy. It was my first trail marathon, and I appreciated the familiarity with the trail after the 1st loop. Ran with my road shoes (Brooks Adrenalin) and I had reasonably good traction. Saw others with trail shoes, but they seems to have similar traction issues that I had (it got quite muddy). Nonethless, if you have trail shoes, I'd recommend it. The race was chip-timed, and your time would be slow. It was obvious that the organizers, Cynthia and Todd have been doing this for a while. The trail was extremely well-marked. There were 2 aid stations with assorted foods, Heed drink and water, located at start and at mid-point of the loop. (I had a water-bottle.) Warning about fan support: don't do this race if you need them. The post-race food and drinks were diverse and plentiful. They had a tent and a fire to keep warm. The medal was a wooden Christmas ornament, which now hangs proudly on my tree. Stayed at Golden Manor Inn, which I recommend. Overall, a fun race.
B. L. from Nashville, TN (12/23/2012) "Fantastic Race!" (about: 2012) 2 previous marathons \| 1 Otter Creek Trail Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 3 This trail marathon was awesome! There was a ton of breakfast food & drink before the race with a nice bonfire to keep the hands warm, all in a very nice park setting. There was a short stretch of road to thin the crowd out before heading into the woods. After a pleasant start the rain came and the trails proved to be very slippery indeed. Lots of runners went down, especially the ones who ran in road shoes. At one point I was going way too fast down a hill, slid out of control. Nearly kissed a tree. Brushed it off and slowed down a bit after that! Seemed that most runners elected to run the 8 or 16 mile distance, which was 1 or two loops, respectively. There was excellent support from the two aid stations which were spaced out along the 8 mile loop. Lots of options for fuel. Best part came at the end. The FOOD WAS INCREDIBLE! I couldn't stop eating the chili and the soup. Couldn't have made it better myself. Had 3 bowls. Very nice touch to have the race director at the fire serving up the steaming hot chili! Would highly recommend this race to anyone who loves to run the trails. Bring your appetite!
K. A. from Philadelphia, PA (12/19/2011) "Tough trail & poor organization = bad race" (about: 2011) 11-50 previous marathons COURSE: 2 ORGANIZATION: 2 FANS: 3 Don't run this marathon unless you are a very expereinced trail runner! The website described it as 'very runnable' - but that is NOT TRUE. The line of runners backed up whenever there was an obstacle on the trail (e.g. huge tree trunks to crawl over, fallen limbs that were too high to jump, 1-foot wide path along a 30-ft drop into the river, steep ascents that people walked up, etc.), so we stood and/or walked in several parts. You definitely cannot run your own pace - you are at the mercy of the other runners and the narrow trail. I'm normally a 3:35-4:05 marathoner, but this course took me 5:10. I chose it because I'm a 50-stater and wanted to cross KY off my list. I'd recommend ANY OTHER race in KY over this one!! Cons: * Very tough trail with several steep ascents and plenty of rocks/roots etc. to trip over * Only 2 water stations on this loop course - 1 ran out of food and the other closed before I got there!! * The website provides no info on the course elevation * No marathoners stuck around post-race. Everyone got in their cars and drove away (I wonder if everyone else was thinking 'good riddance' to this course the same way I was.) * There are plenty of roots etc. to trip over on this course. I fell hard on my final loop and when I crossed the finish line and asked for medical help, I was told the woman working the grill was an RN and could help me when she was done cooking. (Seriously?!) * All in all, it's a dangerous trail. If you got hurt on the trail, I think it would be a LONG time before you got any help * I saw people run off trail because it wasn't clearly marked * The medal was a wooden circle that didn't list the distance (probably because they used the same one for the 8 and 16 mile races). Same with the shirt. * I'm wondering what my $70 entry fee paid for?! Pros: * pretty scenery (if you can take your eyes off the trail)
D. I. from Gainesville, Florida (12/15/2008) "WOW! What an experience!" (about: 2008) 11-50 previous marathons COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 5 This marathon was truly one of the most difficult things that I have ever done! I gave the course 5 stars because it is beautiful and well marked, but it is VERY challenging. Narrow, muddy trails... rocks... roots, but spectacular views. I had to really watch the trail... yes, I fell in the mud... so I missed a lot of the scenery! The organization is outstanding. Thanks to the very dedicated race directors! There is no place for spectators, but the volunteers at the two aid stations are wonderful! A great and friendly group, a beautiful place, but a most difficult marathon! I'm glad that I took the challenge!
Susie Solomon from Dayton, Ohio (12/15/2008) "Brutal Beauty" (about: 2008) 11-50 previous marathons \| 1 Otter Creek Trail Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 2 Wow, this was most likely the last year for this event and the park. That is very sad. Ok, so there really aren't ANY spectators, but that really isn't what you should be looking for on a trail marathon. The course was the most brutal thing I have ever done to myself. But also the most rewarding. Finishing that last loop and crossing the finish line was sublime. You know you earned that one. I wouldn't have made it without my new friend Deb. Her determination kept me going. Nor would I have made it without Tim. When the water stop was abandoned by the youngsters, Tim was able to meet us at the top of the last cliff with water. I am truly blessed to know such great people. Thank you, Cynthia and Todd.

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Marathon Details - Otter Creek Trail Marathon