This is a small time race with a 5-mile, 15.5-mile and 50k option. None of the three are easy distances to cover. The 50k option will send you up almost 10,000 feet of elevation gain. There are only 3 aid stations on the entire course, so runners are strongly encouraged to carry their own. However, those three aid stations are fully stocked with excellent food choices and helpful volunteers. Make no mistake, this race is directed by a knowledge ultra and trail runner. The race management knows exactly what runners need/want at what point.

In 2017, there were about 500 runners total for this race, most of which opted for the 5 and 15.5 mile distance. The 15.5 mile option has elevation gain of over 2,600 feet. It's not called Lovin' The Hills for nothing.

The race is chip timed. The race is quite technical in the trails and often the trails are not wide enough to run 2 wide. However, the scenery is pretty gorgeous. The race is run in Jefferson Memorial Forest in Louisville, Kentucky. The views from the top of the highest hills and along the ridges are second to none in the region.

The post-race is a nice little celebration of various chilis and snacks. Most years, February is cold in Louisville, so hot chili and hot cocoa is a welcome snack.

If you're a local to the area, I would recommend going to Jefferson Memorial Forest and running the trails to understand the terrain of the race. It's a fun race, but it is not easy.