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.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When is 2026 Russell Forest Run?
A: The event takes place on 28 February 2026.
Q: Where is the event held?
A: The event is held in Alexander City, United States.
