Blue Heron 10k
- Date
- May 16, 2026
- Distance
- 10k Run
From the Organizer
Place
Blue Heron
KY HWY 742
Stearns, KY US 42647
Description
Introducing the Blue Heron 10K Trail Race — Limited to 100 Runners!
• Distance: 6.1 Miles
• Elevation Gain: 1,023 ft
• Start Time: 10:00 AM EST
• Race Cut-off: 3 hours
When we heard how many of you were heartbroken over the cancellation of the Yamacraw Trail Runs, we knew we had to step up. Until Yamacraw makes its comeback, we're excited to offer the Blue Heron 10K — a challenging, scenic race through the stunning Big South Fork National River & Recreation Area!
Spots are limited to just 100 runners, so don't miss your chance to be part of this special event. Once all spots are filled, registration will close — no exceptions!
Registration Details
•$50 on May 1st
*The shirt deadline is April 25, so be sure to register early to guarantee race swag!
Packet Pickup
• Date: Friday, May 15
• Time: 5:00 – 7:30 PM
• Location: McCreary County Tourism Office
(Located on the side of the Public Library)
14 Geary Ave., Whitley City, KY 42653
The Course
The route follows the breathtaking Blue Heron Loop Trail, packed with panoramic gorge views, roaring Class IV whitewater rapids, towering sandstone bluffs, and cascading waterfalls. You'll climb wooden step ladders and squeeze through the iconic "Crack-in-the-Rock" passage. The race begins near the concession stand shelter, heading out along the Horse Trail for an unforgettable journey through nature's playground.
Awards
Top 3 Overall for Male and Female Plus, Top 3 in all categories for Male and Female. 10 and under 11-14 15-19 20-29 30-39 40-49 50-59 60-69 70 and over
Important Parking & Carpooling Notice
With 100 runner spots, carpooling is essential due to limited parking. Please Park only in designated spots — no parking on grass or outside marked areas. Let's work together to keep the event safe and seamless for everyone!
Aid Stations & Cutoffs
For the safety of runners and volunteers, cut-off times will be strictly enforced:
• Spur Aid Station: Mile 3.4 — 11:40 AM Cut-off
• Finish: Mile 6.1 — 1:00 PM Cut-off
There will be one fully stocked aid station at mile 3.4, but runners should carry any personal essentials they might need.
Race Day Check-in & Registration
• Location: Blue Heron
• Time: 9:00 AM
We're honored to bring the trail-running community together for a day of adventure, camaraderie, and breathtaking views. Whether you're a seasoned trail runner or tackling your first 10K, the Blue Heron 10K promises to be an unforgettable experience.
Distances & Pricing
Race Location
About This Sport
From Endurance Grid's Founder
Endurance Grid is here to help you understand the sport, decide if it's the right fit, and learn how to prepare. For course distances, logistics, and race-day specifics, always defer to the race organizer's event page.
The 10K is the distance where running stops feeling like a starting point and starts feeling like a sport. Long enough to require a real training block. Short enough that race day is fully manageable for a first-timer who's put in the work.
Race day energy at a 10K is community at its best — strangers cheering you by name, people moving toward the same goal, an atmosphere that solo training can't replicate. It's fast enough that you'll spend the whole race pushing rather than managing your effort.
This is also the distance that builds the base for everything else. Most athletes who go on to run half marathons, do triathlons, or compete in HYROX started here. What you need: running shoes fitted to your stride, a training plan, and the race on your calendar. The registration is what makes the deadline real.
How long to train: 4–8 weeks for most fitness levels.
Running
From 5K to marathon, running races are the most accessible entry point into endurance sport. There's a distance for every fitness level and a community at every start line.
Coming Up
More running races in KY
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What is the Blue Heron 10k?
- Blue Heron 10k is a running event held in Stearns, KY. Learn more about the different endurance sports here.
- When and where is the Blue Heron 10k?
- Saturday, May 16, 2026 in Stearns, KY at Blue Heron Rd, Stearns, KY, 42647, Stearns, KY. Check the official event page for exact start times and wave schedules.
- How do I register for the Blue Heron 10k?
- Registration is handled through their official registration page. Confirm pricing, distances available, and sign up there.
Blue Heron 10k
May 16, 2026