The Universal Sole December Trail Challenge
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The Universal Sole December Trail Challenge
The Universal Sole December Trail Challenge takes place on December 12, 2026 at Schiller Woods West Forest Preserve, Grove 3, in Chicago. The event features a single measured distance of 4.5 miles on off-road trails near the city.
The course is a generally flatter off-road route with crushed limestone, dirt, rocks and roots, mixing single-track and double-track segments; sections can become muddy if it rains. Due to Cook County Forest Preserve guidelines, aid is available only at the start and finish area, so participants are advised to bring a personal bottle or hydration pack. There will be Magnesia Natural Mineral Water at the start/finish, granola bars and bananas at the finish, and postrace refreshments including beer for those 21 and older and chili with a vegetarian option.
Registration fees vary by date with a range of $45 to $60; there are no refunds, exchanges, or person-to-person entry transfers. Every registered runner receives a USOLE Trail Challenge running trucker hat. Packet pick-up is on-site on race morning at the USOLE tents, and race day gear check will be available there. Strollers and leashed dogs are allowed but are asked to start in the last start corral.
Overall winners in female, male and non-binary categories receive custom awards and HOKA gear bags; age group awards go to the top three in each age bracket 0-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, 70-79 and 80+. A postrace raffle will be held at the on-site postrace party. Plenty of parking is available in the forest preserve lots. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
