We are honored to support the Central Kentucky Wildlife Refuge, a 500-acre protected sanctuary in the beautiful Knobs region, dedicated to preserving the plants, animals, and natural landscapes native to Central Kentucky. Founded in 1965 by a group of passionate conservationists, the Refuge has grown into an invaluable resource for both the community and the environment. It directly borders the property we use for the Southern Grit Endurance Challenge, making it a special neighbor to our event. Visitors can explore miles of scenic trails, observe diverse bird species at the Bird Blind, and enjoy peaceful views of ponds like Island Pond, Woodland Pond, and Cheek Wetlands Pond. The Mary Ashby Cheek Nature Center and Benjamin Bright Moran Observation Platform provide opportunities for hands-on learning, research, and nature study, especially for local schools and outdoor education programs. Open year-round with free admission, the Refuge remains a place where nature can be experienced, studied, and protected for generations to come—fulfilling its founders’ vision of creating a permanent sanctuary that inspires, educates, and conserves.

To Learn more visit https://ckwr.org/