WOODVILLE, AL-First things first, plan your racing adventure weekend with reservations for Cathedral Caverns State Park and Lake Guntersville State Park before and after the race. Experience the natural beauty and enjoy all the amenities these parks offer by reserving your stay at Reservations | Alabama State Parks (alapark.com).
The race takes place at Cathedral Caverns State Park: 637 Cave Rd, Woodville, AL 35776 (Course Maps & Elevation profiles: 5K: https://www.strava.com/routes/12984717). Dates: Saturday, September 21, Packet Pickup and Sunday, September 22, race day
Register today and prepare for an unforgettable race experience in a stunning valley surrounded by beautiful Alabama mountains and fields. The adventure begins as you reach the 1.9-mile mark, where you’ll enter the Southeast’s crown jewel of caves at Cathedral Caverns State Park.
The 0.6-mile cave segment of the 5K course offers a unique out-and-back route wide enough for two-way traffic. At the turnaround point, you’ll grab a glow stick, and the cave’s decorative lighting will enhance the magical atmosphere. With average race day temperatures ranging from a cool 54°F to 79°F outside and a constant 58°F inside the cave, this race promises a truly extraordinary experience.
Packet Pickup Information:
- Saturday, September 21: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM at Fleet Feet Sports Huntsville, 2722 Carl T Jones Dr SE B2, Huntsville, AL 35802.
- Sunday, September 22: Race Day: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM. Please arrive at least one hour before your wave starts.
Race Waves: Due to high demand and the cave’s capacity, we will have multiple waves of 200 runners each, starting 30 minutes apart:
- 11:30 AM: 1st Wave
- 12:00 PM: 2nd Wave
- 12:30 PM: 3rd Wave
- 1:00 PM: 4th Wave
- 1:30 PM: 5th Wave
Please coordinate with family and friends to select the same wave before registering, as we cannot accommodate changes. Learn more at Conquer the Cave 5K (runsignup.com).
Shirts & Awards:
- Shirts: Short sleeve tri-blend for all participants.
- Awards: All finishers will receive a unique medal. Age groups: 19 and under, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60+.
Weather and Cutoffs: In case of severe weather, the start may be delayed to ensure safety. If conditions remain dangerous, we may cancel the race. The cutoffs are relaxed, with a 1-hour and 5-minute limit to keep everyone moving through the cave. Walkers are welcome, with an average walking pace of 18-20 minutes per mile.
No refunds, credits, or transfers are available for entries.
What is Conquer the Cave 5K? Just watch this:
Media Release/Alabama State Parks
