Des Plaines River Trail Races
Lake County, United States • 11 Oct 2025
Event overview
The Des Plaines River Trail Races take place on October 11, 2025, at Half Day Forest Preserve in Lake County, Illinois. Distances offered include:
- 50 Mile
- 50 Km
- Marathon
- Half Marathon
This is the 15th edition of the event. Registration opens January 1, 2025 at 10:00 am Central. Packet pickup is available the week before the race at local locations in Libertyville and Park Ridge. The marathon distance is a Boston Qualifier. The event is cup-less; participants must bring their own cup, hydration pack, or bottle.
Course and logistics
All races run primarily on the Des Plaines River Trail, a flat, wide crushed gravel surface described as free of roots and rocks. Races are largely out-and-back along the northern segment of the trail. Major road crossings use bridges or viaducts; minor road crossings occur on longer distances. The trail can flood during heavy rain; an alternate course will be used if needed.
Aid station provisions vary by distance:
- Half Marathon: 2 manned, 2 unmanned
- Marathon: 6 manned, 2 unmanned
- 50 Km: 9 manned, 2 unmanned
- 50 Mile: 10 manned, 2 unmanned
Time limits are posted per distance (for example, Half Marathon 9.5 hours; Marathon 10.5 hours; 50K 11.5 hours; 50 Mile 11.5 hours). There are no refunds; transfers and rollovers are allowed within stated deadlines and fees. Finisher medals are awarded for every distance and prizes are given for overall and age-group placements. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.