Prepare for a true test of grit and determination at the Assault on Yonah Mountain, a challenging 2.5-mile point-to-summit race set for September 26, 2026, in Cleveland, GA. This isn't just a run; it's an ascent of approximately 1650 feet of vertical gain, demanding everything you've got from bottom to top. The course begins on a gravel driveway road before quickly transitioning to a rugged single-track trail that relentlessly climbs Yonah Mountain. Runners will tackle three distinct sections: a more gradual, rocky bottom, a brutally steep and technical middle featuring rock gardens and a notorious 0.1-mile stretch with a 35% grade, and a winding top section with a consistent 12-20% incline. Grippy trail shoes are highly recommended as the path includes dirt, gravel, and rocky sections that can become slippery.

Conquering Yonah Mountain earns you not only bragging rights but also spectacular panoramic views from the summit, making the arduous climb truly worthwhile. As a unique challenge, participants are only timed on their ascent, with a generous 2 hour 15 minute overall cutoff and an intermediate cutoff at the old heli pad. After celebrating your accomplishment at the finish line atop the mountain, you'll embark on a self-supported hike or jog back down to your vehicle. This race is renowned for its difficulty, frequently serving as a training ground for the U.S. Army's Fifth Ranger Training Battalion, and is not recommended for those unprepared for its strenuous demands.

Typical race day conditions in late September offer pleasant running weather, with historical highs around 78°F and lows around 54°F, alongside a mere 15% chance of precipitation. All finishers will receive a well-deserved medal, with custom handmade awards awaiting the top three male and female overall finishers. While aid stations will be available for hydration, participants should note this is a cupless race, so bring your own cup for liquids. If you're seeking an extraordinary mountain challenge where "the juice is worth the squeeze," the Assault on Yonah Mountain awaits.