Loud Thunder 50
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Loud Thunder 50
Loud Thunder 50 is a trail race event at Loud Thunder Forest Preserve in Illinois City, IL, organized by Sun Trail Running. The event offers three distances:
- 50 Miler
- 50K
- Half marathon
The course is primarily a loop of about 13.3 miles used in different combinations for each distance. Terrain is approximately 95% trail, with dirt single and double track, short stretches on grass and crushed gravel, and minimal pavement. Reported elevation gain is about 6600 ft for the 50 mile, 4000 ft for the 50K, and 1900 ft for the half marathon. Runners will encounter a mix of runnable sections, descents, and steep climbs with views of the Mississippi River and Lake George.
Two fully stocked aid stations are available, both permitting drop bags and crew access; the longest gap between aid stations is under 5 miles. Pacers are permitted only for the 50 mile and only for the final roughly 18 miles. Camping is available at the start/finish campground and at other park campgrounds; online reservations open March 1 with a two night minimum for reservations and one night minimum for unreserved sites.
Registration is online only. No refunds or bib transfers are offered; a deferral credit policy exists with deadlines for partial and full credit. A waitlist and a deadline for switching distances are maintained. Race rules include Leave No Trace, no course cutting, trekking poles allowed, and no dogs on course. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.