Face the Forest 5k (Obstacle Course Race)
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Event overview
The Face the Forest 5K is an obstacle course race scheduled for Saturday, August 15, 2026, at Thomas Jefferson’s Poplar Forest in Lynchburg, Virginia. The course is 3.1 miles (5K) and includes multiple obstacles and muddy sections. Entry fees will support educational programming at Poplar Forest. An additional Historic Preservation Fee of $2.00 applies.
Format and logistics
The event offers several entry types: individual elite/competitive, team elite/competitive, corporate team, and multiple non-competitive waves. Elite waves are reserved for competitive runners and include cash prizes and free entry into next year’s race; elite competitors must complete all obstacles to qualify for prizes. Corporate and elite teams are composed of 5-8 participants; teams receive a single finishing time based on the last member to cross the line and individual finishing times are not provided. Non-competitive waves allow optional obstacle participation with no penalties for skipping obstacles.
Poplar Forest Parkway off Enterprise Drive will be closed on race day; all participants must enter via the Poplar Forest service entrance at 687 Poplar Forest Dr., Lynchburg, VA 24551. Packet pickup will be available at the Poplar Forest service entrance on the day before the race and on race day. Registration fees increase on July 25, 2026, and late or day-of registration fees increase on August 14, 2026. T-shirt guarantees apply to those registered before July 25, 2026. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
