Kiss the Goat Trail Races Return to Perry County Park on May 23

Runners who make it to the top of Chimney Rock on May 23 can blow a kiss to a goat overlooking Perry County — the quirky tradition that gives the Kiss the Goat trail races their name and draws competitors back to Perry County Park year after year.

Now in its fourth year, the event returns to the Horse Ring of Perry County Park at 933 Perry Park Road in Hazard with two timed distances: a half-marathon and a 10K. This is the second consecutive year organizers have offered both distances, replacing earlier formats that ranged from an uphill timed trial to a four-mile fun run paired with an eleven-mile run.

The half-marathon sends runners through a 6.56-mile loop twice, in opposite directions, for roughly 2,500 feet of total climbing. The 10K covers a single lap with a short cut and delivers about 1,250 feet of elevation gain. Both courses run through fully wooded terrain with technical sections and fast descents. Trail shoes are strongly recommended, and organizers advise the event is intended for experienced trail runners and hikers. Hikers who plan to walk rather than run are encouraged to register for the 10K and notify organizers.

Race morning begins early at the Horse Ring. Packet pickup opens at 6:30 a.m. and closes at 7:45 a.m., with all runners asked to line up at 7:50 a.m. for a pre-race briefing on course markings. The mass start is set for 8:00 a.m. Half-marathon runners face a cutoff: the second lap must begin before 10:30 a.m.

Parking is available at the Horse Ring and at the Extension office just below Horse Ring Road.

Registration is open through RunSignUp and other listing platforms. Entry for the 10K is $43.40, which includes a platform fee and the KTG Giveaway. The half-marathon is $64.60 with a similar fee and giveaway included. All finishers receive an award, and podium medals go to the top three male and female finishers in each distance. Every participant also receives a 100% cotton commemorative shirt. Snacks are available near the start line; runners are advised to carry their own water on course.

Dogs are welcome at the park facility but are not permitted on the race course.

Louisville runner Lauren Hendrickson, who competed in a previous edition, described the experience in a review: "Kiss The Goat has a beautiful course with well maintained trails. I loved having an event to look forward to celebrate the late spring/early summer running season. I enjoyed the reverse loops and the signage made it easy to navigate either direction. I came from Louisville and wish I had made plans to stay in the area longer; next year I will! The park is just off the highway, so close to lodging and food options, like the Pantry Shelf and Hazard Coffee Company!"

Desi Jarrell, a member of the Pathfinders board who has been involved with the event, framed its value in broader terms: "Meet other people, get comfortable on the trails. It's the perfect opportunity to do so while also supporting our area."

The race stages at the Horse Ring of Perry County Park, just off the highway in Hazard. For runners eyeing their first eastern Kentucky trail event — or returning to a course that already earned their loyalty — registration closes before race morning on May 23.