Des Plaines River Trail Races
Lake County, United States • 10 Oct 2026
Des Plaines River Trail Races : Lake County, Illinois
The Des Plaines River Trail Races are a set of trail events held along the Des Plaines River Trail with start and finish at Half Day Forest Preserve. The race uses a flat, wide, crushed gravel trail that alternates through forests and open wetlands and is largely free of roots and rocks. Because the trail runs along the river, some sections may include water; an alternate course is used if flooding occurs.
Distances offered:
- 50 Mile
- 50K
- Marathon
- Half Marathon
The Marathon is a Boston qualifying course. All races are primarily out-and-back along the northern segment of the trail. The event is cup-less; participants should bring a cup, hydration pack, or bottle for aid stations. Aid station counts:
- Half Marathon: 2 manned, 2 unmanned
- Marathon: 6 manned, 2 unmanned
- 50K: 9 manned, 2 unmanned
- 50 Mile: 10 manned, 2 unmanned
Finisher medals are awarded for every distance; additional awards include belt buckles, plaques, overall male and female winners, and 1st place age-group awards. An on-site grill will offer burgers and snacks after the race and a complimentary beer for finishers of legal drinking age. Registration opens January 1 at 10:00 AM CT and closes October 5 at 11:59 PM CT. Entry fees are nonrefundable; deferrals and transfers are allowed under the stated deadlines. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.