The Ascent Red River Gorge 5K & 10K Trail Races

Are you up for a hilly trail challenge in the RRG?  We have you covered with our Ascent 5K and brand new 10K distance for 2026!

Join us for The Ascent 5K & 10K on Saturday, June 27th at 8:00am for a race you'll never forget.

You'll run/walk/hike your 5K or 10K on private property which is not open to the public.  Our race starts and finishes at the Natural Bridge Campground, just off the Slade exit in Red River Gorge country.  The race is presented by the Rugged Red Race & Adventure Series.  You'll only run/walk/hike a few miles to see some spectacular views and arches.  But come prepared for some serious trail climbs with an unbelievable payoff.

RACE FEATURES:

• Spectacular courses on private property at the Red River Gorge
• Commemorative poly/cotton T-shirts (while supplies last)
• Finishers medals for both races!
• Special pricing ($20) and swag item for participants ages 12-18
• Convenient race day packet pickup from 6:30-7:45am at the Natural Bridge Campground (pavilion)
• Awards for Top 3 M/F Overall finishers in both races
• Free race photos
• Food, fun, music and fellowship to celebrate your finish

PACKET PICKUP - Our packet pickup will be held on Friday, 6/26/26) from 3:00-6:00pm at the Natural Bridge Campground (pavilion).  The GPS address for the campground is 90 L&E Railroad Place, Slade, KY 40376.  There will also be LAST CHANCE PPU on race morning from 6:30-7:45am at the same campground pavilion.

HYDRATION - Our race is cupless in 2026.  We encourage you to bring some type of water bottle or hydration system.  We'll have water available at the start (prerace) and in orange coolers at several locations along the course where you can refill.

REGISTRATION - Online registration will remain open until Friday, June 26th at 12 midnight.  There will be no race day registration.  We are ordering extra shirts which first come first serve.

TIME LIMIT - We are providing a 4-hour time limit to complete either the 5K or 10K.  For the 10K that means keeping a pace of 38 min/mile.  If you don't think you can keep pace then please sign up for the 5K where you'll have plenty of time to hike, relax and take in the views.

NEED ACCOMODATIONS FOR THE RACE?  Check out all the options at www.TheGorge.com

ROUTE MAPS - Coming Soon!

Ready to test your limits? The The Ascent Red River Gorge 5K & 10K Trail Races brings a highly anticipated 5K, 10K to Slade on June 27, 2026. Expect a fantastic route right in the heart of Kentucky.