ARI Oxbow Adventure Trek and 5K

Join Us for the 2026 ARI Adventure Trek & Oxbow 5K!

The Archaeological Research Institute (ARI) enthusiastically invites you to our annual Adventure Trek weekend at the beautiful Guard Archaeological Preserve (GAP) and scenic Oxbow area!

What is the ARI Adventure Trek?

• Family-Friendly Exploration: Adventure Trek is a family-friendly exploration of the fascinating world of archaeology.
• Interactive Journey: Your team will embark on an interactive journey through six exciting stops along GAP trails.
• Hands-On Challenges: You'll take on fun, hands-on challenges at each stop to simulate fundamental archaeological research and preservation activities.
• Prizes: Teams can win prizes for creatively completing the final challenge stop, having the best team costumes, and the most creative team name!

General Information:

• Single Registration: Your single registration allows entry to both the 5k and the Adventure Trek, but you are not required to participate in both.
• Encouragement to Attend: We strongly encourage all participants and guests to attend the Open House at the Guard Archaeological Preserve (GAP) to learn about ARI's 2026 field season research.
• Connect with Staff: Explore our new educational programs and hands-on experiences, connect with staff and volunteers, and learn about summer activities across Lawrenceburg.
• Support ARI: It's also the perfect time to become a member, get involved, or donate to support ARI's mission.

Schedule of Events:

Wednesday, June 3 – Friday, June 5, 2026

• Packet Pick Up: 10 AM – 5 PM on Wednesday, June 3rd: Thursday, June 4th: and 10 AM – 3 PM on Friday, June 5th.
• Race Day Packet Pickup: Opens at 8:00 AM at the Race Starting Line on June 6th.

Event Details - June 6th:

Public Event & Grand Opening

ARI Oxbow 5K Run/Walk (8 AM – 10 AM):

• Race Day Packet Pickup: Opens at 8:00 AM at the Race Starting Line.
• Race Start Time: 9:00 AM at the "Y" intersection in the Oxbow.
• Route: Route through Oxbow trails, ending at the GAP.
• Prizes: Prizes for top finishers and "Best Archaeologist Costume".

Adventure Trek Challenge (10 AM-Noon):

• Start Time: Begins at 10:00 AM, launching every 10 minutes until noon.
• Registration: You will select your start time during registration.
• Email Overview: ARI will email detailed overviews of the stops and the trek to participants before event day.
• Immersive Experience: Untimed, immersive experience suitable for all ages and abilities: let us know if you need accommodation.

Celebration, Festival & Afterparty (10:00 AM - 2:00 PM):

• Food Trucks: Enjoy food trucks and delicious local vendors.
• Live Music: Experience live music, fun activities, and community booths.
• Fundraising: Exciting fundraising opportunities, including access to the famous ARI Atlatl & Spear Range.
• Explore Gardens: Explore our 2026 Experimental Gardens and talk with our Land Stewardship Team.

Parking & Shuttle Information:

• Parking: Available at the Hollywood Casino overflow/oversized parking lot.
• Shuttle Service: Runs approximately every 10 minutes starting at 8:00 AM.
• Walking Option: Participants can choose to walk to the starting line if preferred.
• Handicapped Parking: Available both at the starting line and the GAP.

Registration & Pricing:

• Entry: All registrations include entry to the Adventure Trek and the 5K. You are not required to complete both.
• T-Shirts: T-shirts are included this year: reserve your size at registration to guarantee availability!

Get Involved!

• Volunteer Opportunities: Join our team and support ARI's mission. Email Casey to learn more about volunteering during the Adventure Trek at volunteer@exploreARI.org.
• Information Booths: Visit information booths at the event to sign up for future ARI experiences and learn how to support our efforts.
• Promote Your Organization: Want to promote your organization at the Adventure Trek? Email Events@exploreARI.org.

Why Participate?

Your participation supports ARI's vital work: preserving history, protecting natural landscapes, and creating engaging learning experiences for everyone. Help us strengthen community connections and preserve our shared cultural heritage. Explore, learn, and have fun—together, let's bring archaeology to life!

Event Location:

Event Address: 777 Hollywood Blvd, Lawrenceburg, IN

More Information:

For additional details, visit the race page: ARI Oxbow Adventure Trek and 5K.