An Experiment

An Experiment

An Experiment is a strategy-driven trail running event scheduled for June 27, 2026, at Paintsville Lake State Park in Staffordsville, KY. The event combines a fully marked trail route with optional off-trail checkpoints that award time bonuses, creating decisions about risk and reward during the run. The core route is laid out on established trails and doubletrack with mile markers posted along the way.

Ten optional checkpoints are placed off the main route; each checkpoint has a known time bonus. Immediately before the start, two checkpoints are randomly drawn and declared mandatory; visiting those two is required to avoid converting their bonuses into time penalties. Attack points for off-trail travel are clearly flagged to simplify navigation. No prior navigation experience is required.

The course follows an out-and-back flow along the Fishermen’s Trail, Kiwanis, and Rocky Knob, with much of the route shaded and featuring lake views. Expect hilly terrain with roughly 95% on trail and two notable climbs: a long climb up Rocky Knob and a shorter climb out from the Glade Branch turnaround. An aid station at the halfway point provides water, electrolytes, and snacks. Registration fee is $75 and registration closes June 22. Registered participants receive a race-branded cooling neck gaiter and a commemorative sticker. A post-race meal of soup beans and taters is provided. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.

• 13.1 miles core route
• ~15 miles if visiting all ten checkpoints