The Assault on Yonah Mountain takes place in Cleveland, Georgia on September 26th, bringing runners, hikers, and ruckers to the base of Yonah Mountain for a challenging climb that has become an annual tradition since its inception. This year marks another installment of this steep ascent where participants tackle nearly 1650 vertical feet over less than 2.5 miles from Chambers Road in Cleveland.
On race day morning, runners and hikers will gather early at the base of Yonah Mountain to start their climb up a trail that winds through dense forest and rocky terrain. The starting point is located on Chambers Road where participants can park before heading out onto the mountain path for an elevation gain that challenges even seasoned athletes. As race day approaches, conditions around Cleveland often see temperatures in the mid-20s Celsius with typical September humidity levels hovering near 74%. Trail conditions are expected to be firm and dry.
Since its founding as Assault on Yonah Mountain, this event has attracted hundreds of participants each year who come to test their limits against one of Georgia's most demanding trails. Over the years, the race has grown in popularity with many runners returning annually to improve upon past performances or simply enjoy the camaraderie and breathtaking views at the summit. The race also supports trail maintenance efforts on Yonah Mountain through participant fees.
The course for Assault on Yonah Mountain is a grueling but scenic ascent up Chambers Road, transitioning from gravel pathways to rocky trails as elevation increases sharply over 2 miles. Runners must navigate steep inclines and rocky terrain while carrying additional weight in the ruck division if they choose that category. Aid stations are strategically placed along the route at key intervals where participants can rest briefly before continuing their climb.
Weather on race day is expected to be mild with temperatures ranging from a low of 16°C to a high around 26°C, similar to previous years' conditions in September. The typical humidity level will hover near 74%, and there's an average chance of light precipitation with about 3.9mm rainfall possible. Trail surface should remain hard and dry throughout the race.
The Assault on Yonah Mountain offers a challenging 2.5 Miler climb for runners looking to push their limits, along with a Ruck Division that adds weight-carrying requirements for additional challenge. Both divisions feature a steep elevation gain over less than 2.5 miles from Chambers Road in Cleveland.
2.5 Miler
4K • Start: 07:30:00 • Fee: $50.00
Ruck Division
Start: 07:30:00 • Fee: $50.00
For registration and more information on the Assault on Yonah Mountain, visit [https://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=130662](https://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=130662). The entry fee is $50.00 for both divisions and registration closes one week before the event date on September 19th, 2026.
Bib pickup will be available at Chambers Road in Cleveland from Friday to Sunday morning of race weekend starting at 7am until race start time. Participants must bring a printed copy or digital version of their confirmation email for bib collection and check-in procedures. The event begins promptly at the base on Chambers Road with participants required to complete within two hours fifteen minutes.
Start location is situated directly off Chambers Road in Cleveland, GA where ample parking will be available near the trailhead entrance. Age requirements are not specified but due to physical demands of this race, organizers advise caution for those less accustomed to strenuous uphill climbs or who may pose a fall risk given the rocky and steep terrain involved.
The Assault on Yonah Mountain returns to Cleveland, Georgia on September 26th, offering runners an opportunity to take part in one of the most challenging trail events in the Southeast. Participants will not only test their physical limits but also contribute directly to maintaining and clearing trails along Yonah Mountain, ensuring its beauty is preserved for future generations.
