Assault on Yonah Mountain
Cleveland, United States • 26 Sep 2026
Assault on Yonah Mountain - Overview
Assault on Yonah Mountain is a trail event in Cleveland, Georgia. The course covers about 2.5 miles uphill from the bottom of a gravel driveway to the summit of Yonah Mountain, with approximately 1,650 feet of vertical gain. Participants are timed only for the ascent; return to the parking area is at each participant's own pace. Some runners aim to finish the ascent in under 30 minutes. Many hikers take 45 minutes to 90 minutes.
Course, divisions, safety and awards
The entry route begins with a 0.3 mile climb gaining about 175 feet to the trailhead, then continues on single track. Organizers describe three sections: a lower section with gradual pitches and rocky bits, a middle section with the steepest and most technical terrain (including very rocky areas below an old helipad and a 0.1 mile section of about 35% grade), and a top section of roughly 0.75 miles at a more constant 12-20% grade to a summit field finish.
A ruck division requires minimum carried weight of 15 pounds for women and 20 pounds for men. The event has a total time limit of 2 hours 15 minutes and a cutoff at the first overlook / old helipad of 1 hour 15 minutes. Trail shoes with good grip are recommended; parts of the course include gravel road, rock gardens, and technical sections. All finishers receive a medal; guaranteed medals require registration by September 15. Top three male and female finishers receive handmade awards. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.