Trail Running calendar near Sterling 2026-2027

Run the Rails offers a unique 1, 4, or 7-mile run starting from Prairie Park in Elburn. The courses cross a rail line bridge, providing views of the surrounding countryside. This community event supports the Elburn Parks Commission.

Trail races at Scott County Park in Long Grove, Iowa with 50K, 10 mile and 5 mile options on mixed dirt and grass loops. The event features stocked aid stations, drop bags, post race food, and a community focused race format.

A technical trail event at Franklin Creek State Natural Area near Franklin Grove, IL, offering 5K and 10K courses with multiple creek crossings, notable elevation changes, on-course water at key points, race shirts, and awards.

A looped trail event in Dixon Illinois offering 25K, 50K, 100K and 100 mile distances. The course combines singletrack, grassy meadows and gravel with two aid stations and on course crew access.

Trail races at Swiss Valley Nature Preserve near Peosta, Iowa, on a rugged 5.2-mile loop with 5.2-mile, 25K, and 50K options, free camping and shuttle service, and proceeds supporting local conservation.

A point to point, all trail ultramarathon along the Hennepin Canal State Trail in northwest Illinois. Multiple distances from 50K to 100 miles, with aid stations every 3 to 7 miles and a 30 hour cutoff for Western States qualification.

Run or walk the Fall into Fall Trail 5k in Janesville on October 3, a scenic timed trail through wooded dirt paths with beautiful fall views. Stay for live music, food trucks, beer and wine tasting and raffles; register by Sept 15 to guaran..

A multi-loop trail ultramarathon in Dubuque set on a roughly 20-mile loop through the Mines of Spain Recreation Area, offering 100-mile and 100K options with substantial elevation and varied terrain.

Join the Jaimie Cox Memorial Run on October 17, 2026 in Roscoe, Illinois for a community 5K or 2 mile walk along the scenic Stone Bridge Trail. Family friendly with kids and virtual options, supporting the Jaimie Cox scholarship.

A themed 5k trail event in Pingree Grove featuring multiple heats, haunted sets, animatronics, actors, and post-run activities such as a costume contest, bonfire, live entertainment and food. Entry is listed at $50 per heat.

Embrace an autumn adventure at the Big Timber XC Challenge, a trail run featuring a famous creek crossing through the woods of Camp Big Timber. Choose between a 3-mile or 5-mile course on grass and gravel paths. All runners get a shirt and..