Cactus Classic Trail Races

Cactus Classic Trail Races

The Cactus Classic Trail Races take place on March 7, 2026 at Sand Ridge State Forest near Manito, Illinois. The event begins and ends at the Oak Campground and uses trails through the park's pine forests.

The trails feature loose sandy soil and a mix of flat runnable sections and rolling terrain. The park contains wild cactus plants that are visible along the course. Road crossings on the course are unassisted and require caution.

Available distances:

• 10K (actual distance approximately 6.4 miles)
• Half Marathon (actual distance approximately 13.4 miles)
• Marathon (two loops of the half marathon course)

Aid stations are located at multiple points on the courses; one aid station is unmanned and provides only water and Gatorade. Distances between aid stations may require half marathon participants to carry a handheld bottle or hydration pack. Marathon runners may be prevented from starting a second loop if their first loop exceeds 3.5 hours or at the race director's discretion.

Awards for the 10K include overall male and female and age-group prizes for juniors, open, masters, and grand masters. Half and full marathon events award overall male and female places and hand out finisher medals to all finishers. Registration is available on Ultrasignup; entries after February 21 do not include a shirt or hoodie and registration closes on February 28. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.