ARI Oxbow Adventure Trek and 5K

🌟 Join Us for the 2025 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 activity: 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.
• Fun challenges: You'll take on fun, hands-on challenges at each stop to simulate fundamental archaeological research and preservation activities.
• Theme: This year's theme, "Stories Beneath the Soil: Survey, Study, and Protect," highlights how archaeologists find, study, and protect important historical sites.

ℹ️ General Information:

• Single registration: Your single registration allows entry to both the 5K and the Adventure Trek.
• Optional participation: You are not required to participate in both: you can choose one or the other if you like.
• Open House: We strongly encourage all participants and guests to attend the Open House at the Guard Archaeological Preserve (GAP).
• Connect with us: It's also the perfect time to become a member, get involved, or donate to support ARI's mission.

📅 Schedule of Events:

• Packet Pick Up: May 28th – May 30th at ARI's Basecamp.
• Race Day: Saturday, May 31st, with packet pickup starting at 8:00 AM at the Race Starting Line.
• VIP Sneak Peek: Exclusive preview for ARI members, volunteers, sponsors, and donors on May 30th.
• Public Event: Celebration and Afterparty from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM on May 31st.

🏃 ARI Oxbow 5K Run/Walk:

• Race Start Time: 9:00 AM at the "Y" intersection in the Oxbow.
• Route: Participants will run through Oxbow trails, ending at the GAP.
• Prizes: Prizes for top finishers and "Best Archaeologist Costume."
• Scavenger Hunt: Finishers that complete the 5K Scavenger Hunt will receive an Annual Membership to the Oxbow Conservancy.

🎉 Adventure Trek Challenge:

• Start Time: Begins at 10:00 AM, launching every 10 minutes until noon.
• Themes: This year's theme is "Stories Beneath the Soil: Survey, Study, and Protect."
• Participant Communication: ARI will email detailed overviews of the stops and the trek to participants before event day.
• Accessibility: Untimed, immersive experience suitable for all ages and abilities: let us know if you need accommodation.

🍔 Celebration & Afterparty:

• Food Trucks: Enjoy food trucks and delicious local vendors.
• Live Music: Enjoy live music, fun activities, and community booths.
• Fundraising Activities: Exciting fundraising opportunities, including a dunk tank.
• Explore: Explore our 2025 Experimental Gardens and talk with our Land Stewardship Team.

🚗 Parking & Shuttle Information:

• Parking Location: 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:

• What’s Included: All registrations include entry to the Adventure Trek and the 5K.
• T-shirts: Not included this year but available as an optional add-on.
• Reserve Your Size: Limited quantities—reserve your size at registration to guarantee availability!

🤝 Get Involved!

• Volunteer Opportunities: Available—join our team and support ARI's mission.
• Future ARI Experiences: Visit information booths at the event to sign up for future experiences.
• Organizational Promotion: 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!

✍️ Registration Link:

For more details and registration, visit this link.