Earth Day 50k

Crystal Lake, United States • 18 Apr 2026

Earth Day 50k / 15 Mile / 5 Mile : Crystal Lake, IL

The event is a trail race held at Veterans Acres in Crystal Lake, IL. Distances offered are:

  • 50K
  • 15 Mile
  • 5 Mile

Registration closes on Fri, Apr 10. Packet pick up is available the Friday before at Ornery Mule Racing Trailhead/Headquarters, 824 S. Main Street, Crystal Lake, IL; race day packet pick up is in the pavilion near the main parking lot. The start location is listed as Veterans Acres main parking lot, 431 N. Walkup, Crystal Lake, IL 60014.

Course, aid and awards

The course is a 5-mile loop featuring single track and rolling hills. All races start together and the route leaves the ball field and runs around the pond before entering single track. There is one major aid station at the start/finish area offering homemade and typical ultra foods such as cookies, PB & J, sports drink, soda, chips, and pretzels. Participants are encouraged to bring their own water bottle as the event is working toward being landfill free. The published time limit to complete the race is 8 hours.

Awards include first overall male and female (removed from age-group awards) and age-group awards for men and women in categories Under 29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, and 60+. Entry transfers and rollovers are allowed under specified deadlines; no refunds. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.

Race information

50 km
50k
15 mi
15 Mile
5 mi
5 Mile
Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
Trail runs nearby

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Challenge winter single track trails at Veteran Acres and Sterne's Woods in Crystal Lake on a triple black diamond course offering 50K, 10K and relays. The 50K is five laps of a 10K loop with a warm Gnome Depot serving hot food and coffee.