Earth Day 50k

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

The event offers three trail race distances:

• 50K
• 15 Miler
• 5 Miler

The course is a 5-mile loop routed on single track with rolling hills. The race is described as a PR trail race. All races start together from a ball field and runners pass around a pond before entering the single track to allow spacing.

There is one major aid station at the start/finish area. Aid station offerings include homemade items and typical ultra foods such as cookies, PB & J, sports drink, soda, chips, and pretzels. Organizers state they are working toward making the race landfill free and request that participants bring their own water bottle.

Awards are given to 1st overall male and female (separate from age-group awards) and to age groups for men and women in these brackets: Under 29; 30-39; 40-49; 50-59; 60+. Runners can only win awards in the distance for which they are registered. Changes to a registered distance must be made by April 8 to remain eligible for awards.

Packet pickup is available at Ornery Mule Racing Trailhead/Headquarters on the Friday before the event and on race day at the pavilion near the main parking lot. The event location is Veterans Acres, 431 N. Walkup, Crystal Lake, IL 60014. The event date is April 18, 2026. The race has an 8-hour completion limit. Early bird pricing runs through November 30. Registration closes April 10 at 11:59 PM CT. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.