Backside Trail Marathon

The Backside Trail Marathon and Half is a rugged trail event taking place on Sunday, April 26, 2026, within Seneca and Cherokee Parks in Louisville, Kentucky. Originally established in 2012, the race is traditionally held the day after the Louisville mini-marathon, encouraging a "Double Down" challenge where athletes run road miles on Saturday and trail miles on Sunday. The course features high-quality single-track trails through urban parkland designed by Frederick Law Olmsted. While the terrain is described as gently rolling, the technical nature of the single-track typically results in finishing times approximately 30% slower than standard road marathons. Runners in the full marathon distance complete the trail loop twice to reach the 26.2-mile total.

Louisville is the largest city in Kentucky, with a consolidated population of approximately 633,000 residents. The demographic profile of the city is 66.5% White, 24.1% Black or African American, 6.2% Hispanic or Latino, and 2.9% Asian. The median annual household income in Louisville is roughly $63,000. Geographically, the race takes place in the Beargrass Creek valley, characterized by mature hardwood forests and limestone outcroppings. In late April, the climate is typically mild and humid; average daytime highs reach 21°C (70°F), while morning race starts average around 10°C (50°F). Because the trails are shaded by a heavy forest canopy, participants should be prepared for varying light conditions and potential mud if spring rains occur.

The race logistics are supported by Quest Outdoors and Headfirst Performance, providing three aid stations and allowing one drop bag per participant. Those who complete the "Double Down" receive special commemorative markings on their finisher medals to signify their back-to-back race achievement. The start and finish lines are located near the intersection of Cherokee Gardens and Pee Wee Reese Road, with primary parking available by the Seneca Park softball fields. All participants receive a unisex race shirt and a finisher's medal, provided they complete the course within the sanctioned 8-hour window. Registration remains open until one week prior to the event, and trail-specific footwear is highly recommended due to the technical nature of the single-track sections.