Trail Running calendar near Crystal Lake 2026-2027

Experience an authentic cross country race on a purpose built grass course in Geneva Illinois. Run as an individual or part of a team on this wide professional grade venue featuring rolling terrain and a classic atmosphere.

A Spartan Trail event on a scenic segment of the Ice Age Trail near Rice Lake in Whitewater, WI. Distances include 50K, half marathon and 10K, and the trail terrain ranges from smooth to technical.

Celebrating its 45th year, the YMCA Brickyard Run features a 5 Mile Gold Cup race, a 5K for younger runners, and a new 2K Family Fun Run/Walk. The event is known for its unique brick awards and supports a local YMCA scholarship fund.

Experience the natural beauty of Wolf Road Woods with 3, 6, or 9 mile trail runs on a scenic loop course. Enjoy a relaxed atmosphere featuring off road terrain and post race celebrations in the heart of the Palos Trail System.

This cross country run on July 4th in Williams Bay offers a 5K on grass trails through the Kishwauketoe Nature Conservancy. A kids' quarter-mile event is also available. Registration is online only, with awards for top age-group finishers.

A prairie trail run and walk at Lapham Peak State Forest on July 11, 2026 that raises funds for prairie management, offers awards and shirts for early participants, and includes merchandise, seed sales and on-site food.

A trail 5K at Byron Forest Preserve with chip timing and awards by age group, plus a 1 mile Fun Run with a participation medal. Parking and indoor restrooms are available onsite.

H-F Beast Obstacle Course Dash in Homewood, IL on July 12, 2026 features two age categories with obstacle runs. The event awards finisher medals and t shirts and includes an optional prep course in June.

An endurance loop event at the Pinetum in Lowell Park, Dixon IL, using a 0.411 mile paved loop. Participants choose 6 hour, 12 hour, or 24 hour formats and track their own laps with tents allowed in the loop center.

This 10k walk/run explores the trails of Kettle Moraine State Forest in Wisconsin. It's a cup-less event with water refills and snacks provided. A portion of donations supports The Salvation Army.

A night trail event in Dixon, IL with looped courses of about 5 miles per lap, options for single runners or three‑person relays, on mixed grass, gravel, and dirt trails.

A community cross country race in Mount Prospect on August 9, 2026 offering 1, 2 and 3 mile distances to raise funds for the Little Giraffe Foundation and research into premature babies.

Experience a Scottish themed obstacle course race in Pingree Grove featuring 15k, 5k, and family 3k distances. Challenges include classic rigs and unique tasks like archery and caber carries in a Highland setting.

This annual community event in Sun Prairie features a 5k race and a kids' fun run, with a course on neighborhood bike paths. Proceeds go directly to support the local high school cross country team.

Experience the beauty of New Glarus Woods State Park with trail races ranging from 5k to 16k. This annual event features forested loops and prairie views while supporting park conservation efforts.

Run the Rails in Elburn, Illinois on August 22, 2026 features a 1-mile fun run plus 4- and 7-mile courses that start and finish at Prairie Park. The routes cross the Union Pacific West rail line and benefit the Elburn Parks Commission.

The Summer Trail Classic offers three distances on the single-track trails of Paul Douglas Forest Preserve. It's the third race in a yearly trail series, with proceeds supporting local trail maintenance. Participants receive a running vest..

Tough Mudder Chicago on August 29, 2026 at Rockford International Airport offers 5K, 15K and an eight hour Infinity format across fields, trails and creek crossings, with Mudder Village, finisher items, and group and volunteer options.

A technical trail event at Franklin Creek State Natural Area featuring 5K and 10K routes with multiple hills, limestone bluffs, creek crossings, and a rucking option. Proceeds support the Franklin Creek Conservation Association.

Take on a scenic one mile loop at Lapham Peak with 24, 12, and 6 hour timed options or set distance goals like a marathon or 50 miles. Lighted night laps, a stocked aid station, and a welcoming club vibe make every lap count.