The Carter Caves Half Marathon is a 13.1-mile (approximate) looped trail race that begins and ends at the Fraley Amphitheatre at Carter Caves State Park. The course takes runners along the State Park trails. Runners will be treated to miles of winding single-track trails and natural landmarks that include stunning rock overhangs: Raven Bridge, Fern Bridge, Smokey Bridge, Shangri La Arch Natural Bridge, Smoky Valley Lake, and many of the State Park's famous caves. Carter Caves Half Marathon is a challenging course and recommended for runners who have previously competed in more advanced trail running events. This course is absolutely BEAUTIFUL. Bring your camera and a dry pair of socks. There will be creek crossings.

Important Information

This race is a cup free race. Please bring a water bottle or cup of your own to hydrate during this race.

Packet Pickup

Packet pickup will start at 6pm at the Fraley Amphitheatre next to the Caveland Lodge, and go until 8pm. There will be morning-of packet pickup from 6am to 8am, also at the Fraley Amphitheatre.

Friday evening from 7:30pm-8:00pm, also at Fraley Amphitheatre, the Race Director will be available to answer questions about the course, the race itself, or anything else you may be wondering.

GPX File Download
Interactive Course Map

Start elevation: 944 FT
Max elevation: 1069 FT
Overall gain: 1671 FT

Driving distances:
45 Minutes from Huntington WV
1 hour 30 Minutes from Lexington KY
1 hour 30 Minutes from Charleston WV
2 hours from Cincinnati OH
2 hours 30 Minutes from Louisville KY
2 hours 30 Minutes from Columbus OH
3 hours 45 Minutes from Knoxville TN
3 hours 45 Minutes from Morgantown WV
4 hours from Indianapolis IN

Proceeds from race go towards Kentucky State Parks/Friends of Carter Caves