FKT: Katie Mullins - Berryman Trail (MO) - 2020-04-26

I submitted this FKT because Berryman Trail is a challenging and enjoyable trail that can be done in many different ways; multiple loops, counter-clockwise, or clockwise. It has plenty of water sources and places to cache supplies, which makes this the perfect route to go un-supported or self-supported. Its remoteness in the Mark Twain National forest makes it a great escape from the everyday hustle and bustle of the St. Louis area.

On Sunday April 26, 2020 around 10:50am I started my unsupported FKT attempt at the West Loop trailhead, heading in the clockwise direction. The temperature was 59 degrees and partly sunny when I started. I quickly learned by mile one that I was severely over-dressed. Thankfully I layered my clothing and was able to get comfortable in a tank top, tying both my thin jacket and long sleeve around my waist for the remainder of my trip, about 25 miles. My heavy legs and nagging hip reminded me of the strength and CrossFit style workout I did two days ago. Maybe next time I should rest before attempting to complete 26 trail miles with any sort of speed. Despite my lead legs, I still enjoyed every moment on the rocky trail. By the time my watch clocked 5 miles my feet had already been soaked up to the ankle just as many times as I had miles. My attempt at the Berryman Trail FKT happened to come after three days of heavy rain so I attribute most of my wet feet to that.
Shortly after crossing my 5th creek I came across a large group of equestrian riders. They were giving their horses a water break at an old artesian well. From miles 5 to 7 my creek-crossing count went up to 14. After this I just gave up counting creeks and trudged right on through. I have to admit, the cold water felt refreshing on my feet. After seeing the plentiful water sources, I was seriously regretting not being able to find my water filter. Instead I set out on this trek with 2 L of water (with 8 scoops of tailwind mixed in), two buddy bottles with just water, a few graham crackers, and a couple of GUs just in case.

The trail took me through a couple sun-exposed valleys and past a stagnant pond. The rocky trail was accented by beautiful patches of purple and red wildflowers throughout the entire distance of the trail. The trail was well marked with “BT” mileage markers ,“OT” markers, and signage at trail intersections. It would be hard to get lost out there, thankfully. Shortly after mile 15 I came down the steepest part of the trail. The switchbacks on the trail lead me down to Brazil Creek. Due to its amenities and mileage location on the trail, Brazil Creek (labeled “BC”) would be a convenient location to access crew, refill water, or cache supplies.

After passing Brazil Creek the mileage seemed to fly by. With every ascent I knew there was a going to be a descent, and boy did the second half of this run deliver! I distinctly remember enjoying two long, flowy descents between miles 16 and 24. I was glad the second half of the mileage flew by because I ran out of water around mile 23. The last half mile of the trail is a rocky uphill section leading up to a road crossing. Once I saw the road, I knew I was “home”. I ran across the parking lot to the spot where I started my GPS to complete the loop. Although my submission is more of a training run than an FKT, I wanted to submit this run to set the initial bar for others to conquer.

https://www.relive.cc/view/vXOnEYMJo5v