Slough & Steady

Slough & Steady is a December trail event at Perry Lake near Ozawkie, Kansas, starting and finishing at Apple Valley. Runners can select 25K, 50K, 100K, or 125 miles, accommodating both shorter trail races and long ultras. The Perry Lake trail is divided into five sections; the 50K loop gains approximately 3,300 feet, presenting a challenging course beyond a simple lakeside run. The initial section heads north from Apple Valley through Longview Park, crossing woodland and lake terrain with several high bluffs overlooking Lake Perry. Course markings include blue paint on trees and posts, occasional reflective blue arrows, and double blue marks for distinct left or right turns. The first stretch features an unmanned water drop around 4.7 miles, followed by a manned aid station at the Old Military Trail trailhead 3.5 miles later; this station also serves as the 25K turnaround. Bald eagles might be seen near the first section, and the subsequent section continues northeast for 3.5 miles alongside Little Slough Creek.