Red Cedar Trail Races at Giant City State Park
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Red Cedar Trail Races at Giant City State Park
Red Cedar Trail Races take place at Giant City State Park in Makanda, Illinois, with all events starting at Pavilion 5. The event uses the Red Cedar Trail as its primary route, with mostly single track plus gravel road connectors, horse trails, fields, and less than one mile of paved connectors. The half-marathon loop includes over 1,800 feet of elevation gain. Creek crossings are possible and depend on recent weather.
Distances offered:
- 5K
- 13.6 Miles (half marathon)
- 26 Miles (marathon)
- 50 Miles
The course is marked with ribbons, arrows, directional signs, and confidence markers. It is an open course where runners may encounter hikers and occasional horseback riders; standard trail etiquette and caution are advised. Aid is provided by two well stocked aid stations and two hydration stations per loop; the 5K has a hydration station around mile 2. This is a cupless race. Runners must carry their own water or hydration system. Collapsible cups are available for purchase at check-in.
Cutoffs are listed for each distance. The 50 mile event consists of four loops, and runners starting loop four must have a headlamp. Drop bag and crew access rules apply only to the 50 mile distance and are limited to a specific connector hydration station. Registrations include a swag bag; options and awards vary by distance, including medals, a mug for longer distances, and a buckle for 50 mile finishers. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
