Shawnee Trail Runs

Shawnee Trail Runs

Shawnee Trail Runs takes place in West Portsmouth, Ohio, on trails within Shawnee State Forest. The event offers multiple distances that follow forest backpack trails, bridle trails, and service roads through remote wilderness areas. Routes include long sections with substantial elevation gain and stretches with little sign of civilization.

The longest route is a one-loop ultra that begins with a 7 mile opening loop then continues on a continuous 47 mile loop, producing a total of 54 miles. That course covers much of the 40 mile Shawnee State Forest Backpack Trail and includes a 9 mile remote portion called The Dark Side. Within that Wilderness Area motorized tools and equipment are not allowed and trail maintenance is done by hand.

The 50K route bypasses the opening loop and follows the Backpack Trail before separating onto the Mackletree Bridle Trail, then onto Service Road #2, and then rejoining the Backpack Trail for the final miles. A 13.1 mile course added in 2023 uses smoother, more runnable trails while still including notable hills.

Distances: Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.

• 54 miles - 11,000 feet of climbing
• 50K - 6,500 feet of climbing
• 13.1 miles - 2,600 feet of climbing