The Cross Timbers Trail Run is the oldest trail race in Texas. On February 13, 2016, hundreds of endurance runners will head to Lake Texoma to participate in the 35th Annual Cross Timber Trail Run at Juniper Point. Runners will compete in 5 mile, half marathon, marathon, and 50 mile races along a 14 mile trail.
Over 400 runners participate in this annual event. While most of the participants come from the Texas-Oklahoma area, runners from California to Florida come to Lake Texoma to run in this annual endurance race. They came from as far away as Illinois, Minnesota, Colorado, Louisiana, South Dakota and Missouri.
What’s the allure? Rugged, beautiful, tough terrain! Cross Timbers Trail is known as the “Toughest Little Trail in Texas” for a reason. There are plenty of steep up and downhills as well as terrain that will test your skills and endurance. Runners will wind along mostly narrow, hilly trails with some rocky and hazardous areas. The start and finish is located at the Juniper Point West campground on the southern shores of Lake Texoma. The trail goes out and back along the shores of scenic Lake Texoma. For experienced trail runners who are accustomed to running moderately challenging trails, the Cross Timbers Trail Run races are likely to be a perfect fit. Runners need to be prepared for the weather - temperatures can range from the 30’s to upper 80’s.
In addition to the satisfaction of just finishing the race, the reward is the scenery along the lakeshore, as runners pass through the forested areas of blackjack oaks and run along rocky ledges that overlook the water with views that are truly breathtaking. Heavily rooted areas and large lava boulders will present challenges. Many trail modifications will be in place for all distances due to flooding in the area. Lake Texoma is expected to be at the normal water level of 617 feet by the end of January.
Registration is only available online and there is no race day registration. Registration closes on February 9, 2016 at midnight. The various races will begin at staggered times beginning at 6:30 am for the 50 Miler, 7 am for the Marathon, 7:30 am for the half Marathon and 7:45 am for the 5 Mile Race.