Face the Forest 5k (Obstacle Course Race)

Face the Forest 5K (Obstacle Course Race)

Face the Forest 5K is an obstacle course run held at Thomas Jefferson’s Poplar Forest in Forest, Virginia, using the service entrance at 687 Poplar Forest Dr. The course covers 3.1 miles and includes multiple obstacles and areas of mud. Entry fees support educational programming at Poplar Forest.

The event offers a range of entry categories, including elite or competitive individual waves, team waves, a corporate team option, and many non-competitive waves. Early waves are reserved for elite or competitive runners who will compete for cash prizes and free entry into next year’s race. Elite competitors must complete all obstacles; obstacle completion will be monitored by race volunteers.

Team and corporate entries are for groups of five to eight participants. Teams are encouraged to work together but are not required to stay together. Individual finishing times are not provided for teams; each team receives one finishing time based on the last team member to cross the finish line. The corporate category includes entry fees for 5 to 8 participants and sponsorship benefits such as logo placement on the race shirt and other marketing materials plus an optional informational booth.

Most individual entries are listed at $45. Registration fees increase to $50 on July 25, 2026, and late or day of registration rises to $60 beginning August 14, 2026. Packet pickup is available at the service entrance on the day before the event and on race day; corporate teams are asked to pick up their team packet in advance. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.