Berryman Trail Races
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Berryman Trail Races
The Berryman Trail is an approximately 26.4-mile single-track loop through the Mark Twain National Forest. The event offers two distance options: marathon runners complete one loop and 50-mile runners complete two loops. Each loop has about 2500 ft of elevation gain and 2500 ft of loss.
The trail is moderately technical with many rocks and roots and several stream crossings. Brazil Creek is crossed before and after the aid station at about mile 16 and is typically shin-deep. The course crosses additional stream beds that may or may not contain water depending on recent rainfall. Distance between aid stations ranges from 4 to 6.5 miles, with a water-only station midway through the longest section.
The start and finish are at the shelter in the primitive Berryman Campground, which has pit toilets and no water or electricity. The primitive campground is first-come, first-served and charges $15 per night for camping. There is another small primitive campground with no fees at Brazil Creek Campground near the aid station, about 6.5 miles away. Developed campgrounds and cabins are available about 12 miles away at Huzzah Valley Resort and Bass River Resort. Nearby towns with hotels include Potosi, Steelville, and Cuba.
A US Forest Service Day Use Fee of $5 per day applies at the trailhead and overflow parking; payment is by cash at a self-pay station. Park along Berryman Road on the right side only when using overflow areas. The Berryman Trail was designated a National Recreation Trail in 1980 and shares roughly 12 miles with the Ozark Trail. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
