Gristmill Grind 10K
Franklin Grove, United States • 5 Sep 2026
Gristmill Grind 10K
The Gristmill Grind is a technical trail event held at the Franklin Creek State Natural Area in Franklin Grove, Illinois. This sixth annual edition takes place within a landscape characterized by limestone bluffs, natural springs, and forested canopies. Participants navigate a course that includes ravines, bluffs, and sections of gravel road.
The event offers two main distances:
- 5 km
- 10 km
Participants have the choice to run, walk, or ruck the course. The terrain features significant elevation changes with a gain of approximately 100 feet per mile. A notable feature of the route is the requirement to traverse Franklin Creek. The 10 km distance includes five creek crossings, while the 5 km distance includes two crossings.
Check-in is located at the Hausen Knox Shelter. To minimize environmental impact, this is a cup-less event. Water stations are available at the start, the finish, and the Sunday shelter, which serves as the midway point for the 10 km participants. Those taking part are required to bring their own reusable cups or hydration bladders.
Proceeds from the event support park programs, expansion, and improvements through the Franklin Creek Conservation Association. Awards are presented to the top three male and female finishers in both distances for runners and ruckers. T-shirts are available for purchase, with a guarantee for those who register by mid-August. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.