Trail Running Calendar Illinois 2026-2027

A timed endurance trail event near Willow Springs on a 4 mile loop with single and double track, rolling hills, a signature aid station offering snacks and drinks, and a mandatory reusable cup policy.

Operation GRANITE X at Tri-Township Park on May 16, 2026 features 6 mile loops made of three two mile laps. Two divisions are offered, one with escalating weight and one focused on endurance.

A chip timed 10K through mostly crushed limestone trails and wooded scenery at The Forge Lemont Quarries near Lemont, IL. Part of the Chicago Racing Circuit with overall and age group awards and a 450 runner capacity.

Test your grit at Byron Motosports Park with tactical obstacle courses ranging from 5K to 10K endurance laps. Choose from elite vest challenges, weighted rucking, or open waves designed to honor the resilience of first responders.

A backyard ultra at Willenborg Woods near Charleston, IL, run on a repeating 4.167 mile loop each hour until one runner remains. The final finisher receives a Bronze Ticket tied to a backyard ultra championship.

Experience the historic landscapes of Springfield at the Lincoln Memorial Garden Trail Race 8K. Run through scenic lakeside trails and prairie grounds followed by a medallion finish and post race refreshments.

Experience technical single track trails and creek crossings in the Shawnee National Forest. This event offers several distances across the scenic Red Cedar Trail with significant elevation and full support at Giant City State Park.

Join the free Dirt Circus community running festival in Crystal Lake on May 30, 2026. Choose between a 4.3-mile or 6.8-mile social group run, then enjoy a festival with food, an expo of local brands, and a raffle. Meet race directors and co..

This cross-country event offers a scenic 5K run through Lincoln Trail College, featuring a mix of grass and paved paths. A shorter Kid's Fun Run is also available on the paved course. Awards are given for overall and age group winners, and..

Experience a seasonal trail run through the natural twists and turns of Saw Wee Kee Park. Complete this bib timed race to earn a piece of the 2026 series medal and enjoy the summer landscape.

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.

Experience the local trail community at Kinsey Park with a four mile loop featuring rolling hills and themed stretches. This event offers a great introduction to the local ultramarathon scene in Peoria.

A 7.1 mile trail run around Lake Mingo at Kennekuk Cove County Park on June 13, 2026. The mostly trail course features hills, nine bridges, one aid station halfway and a post race party at the Hideaway Shelter.

A backyard ultra at Kinsey Park in Peoria where runners repeat a 4.16 mile loop each hour until one runner remains. The single track course includes support, participant awards, and milestones for 50k, 50 miles and 100 miles.

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 chip timed 5k run and walk at Mackinaw Valley Vineyard and Winery on June 14, 2026, featuring a two lap cross country course, race swag, and a pour of wine for eligible participants. The event benefits The Heller Center for Kids with Canc..

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.

Mark America's 250th birthday at the Freedom Run in Springfield's Centennial Park. Choose from a 5K, 10K, or a 1-mile fun run/walk on a course that starts atop a hill. Every finisher gets a commemorative shirt and medal.

Experience flowing singletrack and deep ravines at Black Partridge Park in Metamora. This five mile trail race features creek crossings and steep climbs through mature Illinois forests.