Crooked Creek Ultra Trail Race
Sat, Dec 5, 2026, 1:00 AM EST
- Type
- Trail race
Finish signup on the organizer site (check fees and dates there).
Race feel
Conquer challenging trails and soak in scenic views at this ultra race in Kentucky's Bourbon Country, featuring exclusive access to a legendary course.
- Fun
- Scenic
- Competitive
Fun
Scenic
CompetitiveGreat for
- Military & First Responders
Military & First RespondersDiscover the Crooked Creek Ultra Trail Race, a challenging event nestled in Kentucky's picturesque Bourbon Country. Traverse a demanding 12.7-mile loop through rolling hills and hardwood forests, enjoying breathtaking natural views and abundant wildlife. This legendary trail, typically closed to the public, opens exclusively for runners. Choose from distances including 100 miles, 50 miles, marathon, half marathon, or a 5K Trail Challenge. Experience a serene runner's village by John Barr Lake, with dedicated support areas and post-race amenities.
Past race snapshot
What the field usually feels like
A plain-English read from past public results. It is helpful context, not a prediction.
Crowd
Small field
11 100 Mile finishers in 2022. A quieter race where the pack may spread out more quickly.
Typical finish
32:06:53
Think middle-of-the-pack, using chip time when available.
Competitive feel
Lively front
The faster end moves well, but the race still has room for everyday runners. Front-group read: 22:24:58.
People mix
More men
About 9% women and 91% men among finishers who listed gender.
Quick read
For the 100 Mile in 2022, this looks like a small field: 11 finishers are represented here. A middle-of-the-pack finish was around 32:06:53. The quicker front of the field averaged about 22:24:58. Use it as a feel check, not a promise about race day.
Award clues
Historic placement clues only. Race-day awards can use different rules.
Male 20 - 24
Top 3 (from posted divisions)
Male 30 - 34
Top 3 (from posted divisions)
Male 40 - 44
Top 3 (from posted divisions)
Male 45 - 49
Top 3 (from posted divisions)
Male 50 - 54
Top 3 (from posted divisions)
Show the year-by-year numbers
| Distance | Year | Finishers | Typical | Average | Front 10% | Fastest M / W |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 100 Mile | 2022 | 11 | 32:06:53 | 30:27:15 | 22:24:58 | 21:07:03 / 34:59:07 |
Last summary update: May 2, 2026
From the organizer
Welcome to the Crooked Creek Ultra, an exhilarating trail race set in the heart of Bourbon Country at the picturesque Camp Crooked Creek inside the Harry S. Frazier Scout Reservation. This challenging 12.7-mile loop, boasting over 2,300 feet of elevation gain per lap, promises runners an unforgettable experience through 1,000 acres of rolling hills adorned with a hardwood forest of oak, hickory, and beech trees. As you traverse the course, take in the breathtaking natural views and keep an eye out for the abundant wildlife that calls this scenic landscape home.
The 2026 Crooked Creek Trail Weekend will be on Saturday, December 5th, and Sunday, December 6th.
The race kicks off and concludes at the start-finish line, nestled near the 70-acre John Barr Lake. The lake provides a serene backdrop to the runner's village, creating a perfect setting for both the starting adrenaline rush and the triumphant finish line celebrations. This legendary trail, typically off-limits to the public, becomes accessible exclusively during the Crooked Creek event.
Choose your challenge from options including the daunting 100 miles (now with a 36-hour cutoff), the demanding 50 miles (with a 16-hour cutoff), or opt for the marathon and half marathon distances. For those seeking a taste of the Crooked Creek experience, we also present a special 5K Trail Challenge—a fun and challenging run that offers a sneak peek into the larger race.
The Start/Finish line provides a spacious area for runners to set up their support tents, and participants in the 100-mile and 50-mile challenges can look forward to a unique "Pit Road" experience. This exclusive access point allows your support team to connect with you at the start-finish line and again at the three-mile mark of each loop. To add to the runner's comfort, heated shower houses will be available, ensuring a refreshing post-race experience after conquering the demanding "Crooked Creek Crusher" course.
Conveniently located just 15 minutes from the Louisville International Airport and off Interstate 65 in Shepherdsville, Kentucky, the Crooked Creek Ultra offers an excellent option for runners looking to check a Kentucky event off their list. With multiple lodging options within a 10-minute radius and the availability of (unheated) cabins at Camp Crooked Creek, participants can plan a comfortable stay. For those seeking a more rustic experience, primitive camping options are also available, complete with access to heated bathrooms and the shower house.