Adventure Trek & 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? 

Adventure Trek is a family-friendly exploration of the fascinating world of archaeology. Your team will embark on an interactive journey through six exciting stops along GAP trails. You'll take on fun, hands-on challenges at each stop to simulate fundamental archaeological research and preservation activities. This year's theme, "Stories Beneath the Soil: Survey, Study, and Protect," highlights how archaeologists find, study, and protect important historical sites. Teams can win prizes for creatively completing the final challenge stop, having the best team costumes, and the most creative team name!

General Information: 

Your single registration allows entry to both the 5k and the Adventure Trek, but you are not required to participate in both.  You can choose one or the other if you like.However, we strongly encourage all participants and guests to attend the Open House at the Guard Archaeological Preserve (GAP) to learn about ARI's 2025 field season research, explore our new educational programs and hands-on experiences, and connect with staff and volunteers. It's also the perfect time to become a member, get involved, or donate to support ARI's mission.

Schedule of Events:

Wednesday, May 28th – Friday, May 30th

Packet Pick Up at ARI's Basecamp (126 W. High Street, Lawrenceburg, IN 47025):

•                  Wednesday, May 28th, 10 AM – 5 PM

•                  Thursday, May 29th, 10 AM – 5 PM

•                  Friday, May 30th, 10 AM – 3 PM

•                  Saturday, May 31stRace Day Packet Pickup Opens at 8:00 AM at the Race Starting Line 

Friday, May 30th - VIP Sneak Peek (Invitation Only)

•                  Exclusive preview for ARI members, volunteers, sponsors, and donors

•                  Enjoy archaeological demonstrations, surface survey activities, and behind-the-scenes research discussions

•                  Complimentary wine, beer, appetizers, and bonfires

•                  Find how you can gain access to this private event by emailing liz@exploreARI.org

Saturday, May 31st - 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 through Oxbow trails, ending at the GAP

·       Prizes for top finishers and "Best Archaeologist Costume"

·       Finishers that complete the 5k Scavenger Hunt will be entered in a raffle to receive an Annual Membership to the Oxbow Conservancy.

Adventure Trek Challenge (10 AM-Noon):

·       This year's theme - Stories Beneath the Soil: Survey, Study, and Protect

·       Begins at 10:00 AM, launching every 10 minutes until noon

·       You will select your start time during registration

·       ARI will email detailed overviews of the stops and the trek to participants before event day

·       Untimed, immersive experience suitable for all ages and abilities; let us know if you need accommodation so we can have it ready for you and your team!

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

·       Food trucks and delicious local vendors

·       Live music, fun activities, and community booths

·       Exciting fundraising opportunities, including a dunk tank and access to the famous ARI Atlatl & Spear Range

·       Explore our 2025 Experimental Gardens and talk with our Land Stewardship Team

Parking & Shuttle Information:

·       Parking is available at the Hollywood Casino overflow/oversized parking lot. Look for ARI signage and volunteers directing traffic.

·       Shuttle service runs approximately every 10 minutes starting at 8:00 AM.

·       Participants can choose to walk to the starting line if preferred.

·       Handicapped parking is available both at the starting line and the GAP.

Registration & Pricing:

·       All registrations include entry to the Adventure Trek and the 5K. You are not required to complete both. Please register for a start time of the Adventure Trek.

·       T-shirts are not included this year but are available as an optional add-on. Limited quantities—reserve your size at registration to guarantee availability!

Get Involved!

·       Volunteer opportunities are available. Join our team and support ARI's mission. Email Casey to learn more about volunteering during the Adventure Trek volunteer@exploreARI.org

·       Visit information booths at the event to sign up for future ARI experiences and learn how to support our efforts. 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!