The Ascent Red River Gorge 5K

The Ascent Red River Gorge 5K

The Ascent Red River Gorge 5K is a trail event scheduled for June 27, 2026, at the Natural Bridge Campground in Slade, Kentucky. The course uses private property within the Red River Gorge and starts and finishes at the campground near the Slade exit.

The event covers a 5K distance on hilly trails that include notable views and arches. Organizers provide commemorative poly/cotton T-shirts while supplies last, free race photos, and awards for the top three male and top three female overall finishers. The event has offered packet pickup at the Natural Bridge Campground pavilion both the day before the race and on race morning.

Participants should expect on-course water refill points; the event has previously used a cupless approach and recommends bringing a personal water bottle or hydration system. A route map is provided by the organizers. Online registration windows are specified by the event; there is no race day registration for past editions. Organizers also set a time limit of 2.5 hours to complete the 5K course.

The event is presented as part of a Rugged Red race and adventure series and includes post-finish food, music and fellowship at the campground. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.