Box Turtle Express 15K
This fast paced 15k (9.2 mile) is on beautiful single track covering the best of the Bauxite Ridge trail system. Composed of 90% single track, runners will climb from the MERC track atop Bauxite Ridge immediately followed by a long descent into Murky Marsh. This is where the 15k and the 8k courses diverge. 15k racers will take a right at the Murky Marsh Aid Station #1 and continue to climb back up to Rolling Ridge and around Pogo’s Run before making another long descent back into Murky Marsh. Once you hit the bottom you’ll be rewarded with a couple miles of fast and flat trail to Murky Marsh Aid Station #2 where runners will take a hard left back onto Box Turtle. From here you have approximately 2.5 miles back to the MERC track and Finish! The course has 750’ of elevation gain/loss. This route is a homegrown favorite of trail runners who run Bauxite Ridge often and we think you’ll enjoy it as well!
Box Turtle Express 8K
Bigger isn’t always better! Whether you’re into a nice reasonable run through the woods or maybe you just want to rip a fast lap on Box Turtle, this distance is for you! The 8K follows the same route as the 15K, up Box Turtle to the top of the ridge and down to Murky Marsh (Aid Station 1). It’s here where you’ll take a left and continue on Box Turtle back to the MERC Track for approximately 3 miles to the Finish. This course simply follows the Box Turtle loop and can be completed as fast as 45 minutes or reasonably done in 90 minutes.
Box Turtle Express Kids Run
We are all about creating amazing experiences for the next generation of runners and trail lovers. This 0.65 mile paved trail should do just that. It’s for kids 10 & under and each runner will receive a custom race t-shirt and finisher medal along with some other fun swag! Parents are encouraged (if needed) to run with their kiddo encouraging them to have fun and do their best!