Prepare for an unforgettable journey through Kentucky's stunning natural landscape at the Land Between the Lakes Trail Runs, taking place on March 14, 2026, in Grand Rivers, KY. This esteemed event, known as "The Great American Trail Race" and celebrating its 22nd year, offers an authentic trail running experience with distances including a 50-mile ultra, 60K, marathon (26.2M), and 23K. Runners will begin their adventure along the picturesque shoreline of Kentucky Lake at Lighthouse Landing, transitioning from a brief paved road section to the heart of the 170,000-acre Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area.

The race course primarily utilizes the challenging 11.3-mile Canal Loop, a mostly single-track path of nicely packed dirt that offers breathtaking views of both Kentucky and Barkley Lakes. Expect a rugged and rooted terrain with relentlessly rolling hills—gentle on the Lake Barkley side and larger on the Kentucky Lake side—demanding constant attention and rewarding resilience. While sections are runnable, the course is often described as technical, ensuring that every mile feels earned. Typical race day conditions in mid-March bring highs around 61°F and lows around 42°F, with a modest 17% chance of precipitation, though the early spring weather can be unpredictable, adding to the race's unique challenge.

Durbin Race Management is renowned for its exceptional organization, ensuring a smooth experience from packet pickup at the Grand Rivers Community Center to the finish line. Aid stations, strategically placed every 2-3.3 miles, are well-stocked with water, Tailwind, Coke products, and traditional trail snacks, all supported by friendly and enthusiastic volunteers. Finishers of the 50-mile and 60K distances are awarded coveted belt buckles, a testament to the genuine accomplishment of conquering this demanding course. The Land Between the Lakes Trail Runs promise not just a race, but a memorable journey through a stunning natural setting, complemented by the warm hospitality of Grand Rivers.