Lincoln Memorial Garden Trail Race

Lincoln Memorial Garden Trail Race 8K

The Lincoln Memorial Garden Trail Race 8K takes place on May 30, 2026, in Springfield, Illinois at 2301 East Lake Shore Drive. The event includes an 8K trail race held entirely within the Lincoln Memorial Garden and a Kids Fun Run around the pond at Cawley Meadow.

• 8 km
• 34 yards (age 4 and under)
• 225 yards (age 5-7)
• 415 yards (age 8 and over)

Race details and course

Online registration opens February 1, 2026. Early registration for the 8K is $32 and the regular price is $37 after April 15, plus a variable signup fee. The 8K is limited to 300 participants. The Kids Fun Run registration is $7.50 with no participant limit. Registration must be completed online; there will be no manual or on-site registration computers.

Each 8K participant receives a shirt and a wooden medallion at the finish. Kids receive a t-shirt and a finishing medal. Packet pickup is scheduled Friday from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. at the Springfield Running Center, 2943 W. White Oaks Drive, with race-day pickup available at the Garden.

The course is on wood-chipped, fine-chip gravel, and grass trails, with some short gravel driveway sections and multiple wood-plank bridges. The start/finish area is on sidewalk and porous pavement, and spikes are not allowed. Awards include winners by gender and age-group placements and $50 gift cards for listed winners. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.