Athens Big Fork Trail Marathon
Big Fork, United States • 9 Jan 2027
Athens Big Fork Trail Marathon and 17 Mile Fun Run
The event is the 28th annual Athens Big Fork Trail Marathon and 17 Mile Blaylock Creek Fun Run held on the Athens Big Fork trail, beginning and ending at the Big Fork Community Center near Mena, Arkansas. Both events use an out and back, well marked course.
Distances:
- 26.2 Miles full marathon
- 17 Miles Blaylock Creek Fun Run
The full marathon includes eight mountains climbed twice for a total of sixteen mountains and about 7,000 feet of cumulative elevation gain. Marathon runners may choose to drop to the 17 mile fun run on race day at the Blaylock Creek aid station (mile 8.5). The marathon turnaround is at Forest Rd B23F (mile 13.1).
There are three fully stocked aid stations offering typical aid station fare and additional specialty items provided by aid captains. The event is cupless so participants should bring a personal cup or handheld. Registration is donation based with a suggested minimum donation of $35; the event is organized by a 501(c)(3) and proceeds are donated to the Big Fork Community Center and the Ouachita Amateur Radio Association.
Safety measures reflect the remote nature of the course. Required gear includes a hydration system and a light source; a windbreaker or space blanket is suggested. HAM radio operators will staff aid stations and several medical entities will be on standby. No bib transfers are allowed. Awards are given to overall male and female finishers in each race and special awards are given to 10 and 15 year finishers. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.