The Universal Sole December Trail Challenge
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The Universal Sole December Trail Challenge
The event is a trail running race held in Schiller Woods West Forest Preserve (Grove 3) in Chicago. The course is approximately 4.5 miles and follows a flatter off‑road layout with crushed limestone, dirt, rocks, roots and a mix of single- and double-track; sections can become muddy in wet weather.
Registration is tiered with higher fees closer to the event date; no exchanges, refunds, or person-to-person entry transfers are permitted. Every registered participant receives a custom premium running trucker hat. Finishers are offered a hot chili with a vegetarian option and refreshments, with alcoholic beverages available to those 21 and older. A post-race raffle is held on-site, and overall winners in Female, Male and Non-Binary categories receive custom awards and gear bags; age-group awards are given for standard age brackets.
Due to forest preserve guidelines, there are no aid stations on the trails; water is available only at the start/finish area, so participants are advised to bring their own bottle or hydration pack. Packet pick-up and race morning registration take place on-site at the preserve near the event tents. Strollers and leashed dogs are allowed with placement in the last start corral. In the case of lightning the event may be delayed; other weather conditions are generally not a reason to cancel. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
