Bobby Glenn, Race Director at Knoxville Track Club (KTC), describes the third race of 2021’s “dirty dozen” as, “In the wooded hollows of Big Ridge State Park east of Norris near Maynardville, the 11-mile course delves into long forgotten, mud-slogged crevasses thought to be haunted by haints, demons, banshees, phantoms, and poltergeists” No doubt in reference to Big Ridge’s ghost hikes in October! He continues, “We also offer a five-mile option for those who choose to spend a bit less time on the trail, and a shorter still, but equally delightful, kids trail mile for the young 'uns. A splendid time is guaranteed for all. And the kids’ race is only five bucks (ten if you want a shirt just like the grownups!). Oh, yes, there is a hill on the long course. And a few bumps on both.”

KTC also offers a virtual option for each race. This is a fantastic opportunity for runners to get out and test their endurance on a challenging and tough terrain. Registration for the March 14th event is available until race day by visiting KTC.org.

The “Dark Hollow Wallow” is held the end of February or beginning of March each year so there’s no foliage yet; it is very much a winter scene which offers beautiful views. However, this time of year is generally very wet so as the runners splash through the mud and the muck on the course, they come through the finish line with evidence of the trail splattered all over them, hence the name!

Between the cold winter weather and the rain, Park Ranger Derek Wilson is challenged each year to prepare the course for race day, but thankfully he has some help. The Rathes are a local family that is very involved with the park, both taking advantage of its services and giving back. Siblings Hope, Nehemiah, and Elijah Rathe assist Wilson in pushing fallen trees and limbs off the trail and carrying supplies for their hike.

Since 2004, KTC has offered a slate of off-road races designed to both challenge experienced trail runners and entice and nurture newcomers to the sport, presenting a wide-ranging schedule of off-road events to attract larger crowds and bring trail running to the forefront of running consciousness. The series has expanded to a dozen or more races annually at not only city and county parks, but state and regional parks throughout East Tennessee.

KTC shows its appreciation for the use of the park by making a donation each year. Between KTC and other donors, the park has built up a nice little fund of over $5,000! Maybe you’re not a runner—or not yet anyway—but are inspired to get into shape and get outside and play? Come on out and cheer the runners on and perhaps get inspired to start training to participate next year! It’s also a wonderful opportunity to revisit Big Ridge and get reminded of the awesome park we have available right here to enjoy!

BIG RIDGE STATE PARK
1015 Big Ridge Park Road Maynardville, TN 37807 800-471-5305 865-992-5523

HOURS OF OPERATION
Park, April to November: Sunrise to 10:00 p.m. ET Park, November to April: Sunrise to Sunset
Office, April to November: 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Daily Office, November to April: 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. M—F

DIRECTIONS
From I-75, Exit 122, and take Hwy 61 East for approximately 12 miles. Park entrance is on the left. The park is located between the cities of Andersonville and Maynardville.