The Ascent Red River Gorge 5K

Event

The Ascent Red River Gorge 5K is a trail run/walk held on Saturday, June 27, 2026, in Slade, KY. The course is on private property in the Red River Gorge and starts and finishes at the Natural Bridge Campground, 90 L&E Railroad Place, Slade, KY 40376. The event is part of the Rugged Red Race & Adventure Series and follows a hilly trail route with views and rock arches. The distance is 5K. The race offers commemorative poly/cotton tie-dye shirts (while supplies last), awards for the top three male and female overall finishers, free race photos, and post-race food and music.

Logistics

Entry for the 5K is listed at $25. Online registration opens March 17, 2026, and remains available until June 27 at midnight; there is no race day registration. Packet pickup is scheduled for the Friday before the race from 3:00-6:00pm at the Natural Bridge Campground pavilion, with a last-chance pickup on race morning from 6:30-7:45am at the same location. The event is cupless; participants are encouraged to bring a personal water bottle or hydration system. Water will be available at the start area and in coolers at several points along the course. A 2.5 hour time limit is in place to complete the course. A route map is provided by the organizers. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.