Winter Night Owl Trail Marathon 2025

• Night-time trail race at Caesar Creek State Park with marathon, half marathon, and 10K options.
• Emphasizes sustainability with a cupless format; mandatory gear includes headlamp, water bottle, and cell phone.
• Single track trail with rolling hills; weather can affect conditions, potentially creating mud, snow, or ice.
• Four aid stations; Wellman Meadow station becomes unmanned after 10K runners pass.
• Finishers receive glow-in-the-dark medals; top finishers receive awards; no refunds, but entries roll over if postponed.

The Winter Night Owl Trail Marathon at Caesar Creek State Park in Waynesville, Ohio, offers an unforgettable nighttime adventure for runners of all levels. With options for a full marathon, half marathon, and 10K, participants navigate the wooded trails under the stars, adding a magical element to the challenge. The single-track course winds around Caesar Creek Lake, blending the yellow perimeter loop with the red and green trails near Wellman Meadow, providing a scenic yet demanding route.

This event stands out for its commitment to inclusivity and sustainability, featuring a cupless race and essential safety gear requirements like headlamps and collapsible cups. As a Trail Sisters approved event, it ensures equal opportunities and support for all runners, offering women’s specific swag and menstrual products at aid stations. Finishers are rewarded with glow-in-the-dark medals, and top performers receive special awards.

The Winter Night Owl Trail Marathon is not just a race; it's an experience that combines the thrill of night running with a strong community ethos, making it a must-do for those seeking both adventure and a supportive running environment.

Expect temperatures between 24-38°F (-4-3°C) during the Winter Night Owl Trail Marathon in Waynesville, Ohio, in mid-January. Prepare for high humidity and overcast skies, with the possibility of snowfall affecting trail conditions. Evening runs may encounter light to moderate winds and cooler temperatures.

The Winter Night Owl Trail Marathon at Caesar Creek State Park in Waynesville, Ohio, offers runners a truly distinctive experience. This night-time trail event weaves through single-track paths with rolling hills, alternating between dense woods and open meadows. The course integrates the yellow perimeter loop and the red/green trail near Wellman Meadow, creating a dynamic and varied terrain.

Runners face a series of back-to-back rollers, especially challenging in the latter parts of the race. While the course lacks steep climbs, its difficulty can vary dramatically depending on the weather, with dry conditions being more forgiving and wet conditions transforming the trail into a muddy, icy obstacle.

Key landmarks include the picturesque Wellman Meadow and brief road sections along North Clarksville Road and Route 73, where participants must navigate a short railing to rejoin the trail. The race's nocturnal setting adds an exhilarating twist, with runners required to carry headlamps or waist lights, enhancing the adventure of navigating trails under the stars. As the sun sets over Caesar Creek Lake, the staggered start times for the marathon, half marathon, and 10K allow participants to savor the beauty of the evening.

The course features four strategically placed aid stations, with strict cutoff times ensuring runners complete their journey within the designated timeframe. Despite the challenges of darkness and unpredictable weather, the Winter Night Owl Trail Marathon promises an unforgettable blend of natural beauty and night-time excitement, making it a must-experience event for trail enthusiasts.

Nestled in the heart of Ohio, Waynesville offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventure and small-town charm, perfect for visitors to the Winter Night Owl Trail Marathon. Beyond the race, Caesar Creek State Park invites exploration with its scenic trails and serene lakeside views. For those seeking a leisurely day, Hisey Park provides a peaceful setting for a lakeside stroll, while the Museum at the Friends Home offers a glimpse into local history and culture.

Waynesville's historic downtown is a treasure trove for travelers, boasting over 60 shops, restaurants, and galleries set against the backdrop of Victorian architecture and Quaker heritage. Known as the "Antique Capital of the Midwest," the town is a haven for antique enthusiasts and craft lovers alike. After shopping, unwind in one of the cozy local eateries or coffee houses, where you can savor the town's warm hospitality.

While the marathon weekend is a highlight, consider returning to Waynesville for its vibrant events throughout the year, such as the Ohio Sauerkraut Festival or Christmas in the Village. Whether you're exploring the area's rich history or indulging in its cultural offerings, Waynesville promises an enriching experience that extends far beyond the race course.