2026 Russell Forest Run

The Russell Forest Run is scheduled for Saturday, February 28, 2026, at Russell Crossroads, located south of Alexander City on Alabama State Highway 63, approximately 3 miles north of the Kowaliga Bridge. The event takes place within the Russell Forest Trail System, featuring a mixed-terrain course over sand, clay, and gravel roads. Participants can expect a scenic route that weaves through lush pines and hardwoods along the shoreline of Lake Martin. The temperature in Alexander City on this date is expected to range between 38°F and 52°F, with partly cloudy conditions and a slight chance of light rain. The race includes both 5K and 10K distances, with start times beginning at 7:45 AM CST for the 10K and 7:55 AM CST for the 5K. The event concludes around 11:00 AM CST, with a post-race party held near The Stables.

What distances are available for this event?

• →5K race starting at 7:55 AM CST
• →10K race starting at 7:45 AM CST

How much does registration cost?

• →Early bird registration: $40 (until February 27, 2026 at 11:59 PM CST)
• →Regular registration: $40 (after February 27, 2026 at 11:59 PM CST)

When is the race scheduled?

• →The event is scheduled for Saturday, February 28, 2026.

Where is the event held?

• →The event is held at Russell Crossroads, located south of Alexander City on Alabama State Highway 63, about 3 miles north of the Kowaliga Bridge.

What is the course terrain like?

• →The course features mixed-terrain, including sand, clay, and gravel roads.

What is the race format?

• →Both the 5K and 10K are out-and-back courses.

What is included in the registration?

• →A 2026 race shirt is included for all participants.

What is the schedule for the event?

• →10K: Start at 7:45 AM CST, end at 11:00 AM CST
• →5K: Start at 7:55 AM CST, end at 11:00 AM CST

Where is packet pickup located?

• →Packet pickup is at the Discovery Center at Russell Crossroads, 111 Benson Mill Road, Alexander City, AL.

When is packet pickup available?

• →Packet pickup is available on Friday, February 27, from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM.
• →Packet pickup is also available on Saturday, February 28, from 6:00 AM to 7:20 AM.

Are pets allowed on the course?

• →No pets are allowed on the course during the run for safety reasons.

What is the post-race event?

• →The post-race party is located at The Stables, featuring the World Famous Grits Bar and live music.

What charity does the event support?

• →The event supports the Alexander City Schools Education Foundation (ACSEF), having donated over $150,000 to date.

What is the expected weather on the event day?

• →The expected temperature range is 38°F to 52°F, with partly cloudy conditions and a slight chance of light rain.