Keepin' It Rural

Event overview

Keepin' It Rural 5K/10K is the tenth annual trail event held on December 7, 2025, at the Elfin Forest Recreational Reserve near the Olivenhain Dam in San Diego County. Distances offered:

• 5K
• 10K

Both the 5K and 10K are run on single-track dirt trails. The 5K is offered for both runners and non-chip-timed hikers; the 10K is limited to runners. Runners are chip-timed and water/aid stations are provided on course. Top three male and female finishers in each distance receive prizes. Team entries are available, including the Golden Goat 10K team competition and group discounts for teams of five or more. The event is limited to 350 participants. Each registered participant receives a commemorative technical t-shirt, a finisher medallion, and one complimentary beer for ages 21 and over. A portion of race proceeds will benefit the Escondido Creek Conservancy.

Course, access and race logistics

The course is single-track trail through areas of oak riparian, oak woodland, coastal sage scrub, and chaparral. There is a two-hour time limit on the course. The event includes a post-race festival with a vendor expo, food trucks, a beer garden, a live band, and a raffle. Packet pickup occurs on the day before the race at the Lost Abbey Sanctuary in San Elijo. Access to the race staging area prior to race morning via Via Ambiente is prohibited; pre-running is permitted only from the Elfin Forest Recreational Reserve entrance during regular reserve hours and on designated trails. The event is non-refundable; if cancelled, organizers plan to reschedule when possible. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.