Trail Running calendar near Lake County 2026-2027

This 5K run/walk takes place on the Rock Run Greenway Trail in Joliet, starting and ending at Cemeno's Pizza. All proceeds support local cancer patients through the Pat Clark Cancer Foundation. Registration includes a T-shirt and finisher m..

Experience the natural beauty of St. Charles at the Hickory Knolls Trail Run, featuring 5K, 10K, and relay options on scenic grass and dirt forest pathways.

An annual trail ultra held each June with 100 mile, 100k, 50k and 38 mile options; much of the course runs on the Ice Age Trail. Registration for 2026 is by Ultrasignup lottery with a waitlist and early-invite options.

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.

Experience the glacial landscapes of Wisconsin at the Whitewater Trail Challenge. Run along the historic Ice Age Trail with 10K, Half Marathon, and 50K distances starting from the scenic Rice Lake Nature Trail.

A looped trail endurance event in Valparaiso where runners tackle 3 to 4 mile Holes and receive golf-style stroke scores; the 50K uses nine Holes and the 10M uses three Holes.

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.

Experience the Savage Race in Spring Grove with obstacles and mud across multiple distances. Choose between a five to seven mile course or the shorter three mile Blitz for an engaging outdoor fitness experience.

Test your strength and endurance at this outdoor obstacle course in Homewood. Choose between one or two mile distances featuring tire flips and spear throws to earn your finisher medal.

Experience the diverse single track trails of Valparaiso at the Oakadoke Trail Runs. Choose between 4, 9, or 18 mile courses featuring scenic creek crossings and winding switchbacks followed by a celebratory post race meal.

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.

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.

Experience the scenery of Elburn at Run the Rails featuring 1-mile, 4-mile, and 7-mile courses. Cross the Union Pacific West rail line and enjoy unique views of the Illinois countryside.

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.

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.

A chip timed half marathon and 10K through the crushed limestone trails of Danada Forest Preserve near Wheaton, IL, with USATF certified courses, finisher medals, pacers, shuttle parking, a virtual option and live participant tracking.

Experience a unique multi-terrain race through the scenic sand dunes and woodland trails of Western Michigan. Scale the iconic steps of Mt. Baldhead and celebrate your achievement at a festive post-race party in downtown Saugatuck.