Madder Than a Wet Hen
Charleston, United States • 25 Jul 2026
Event details
Madder Than A Wet Hen is a trail 5K held on July 25, 2026, in Charleston, Illinois, at Willenborg Woods. The field is limited to 125 participants. Registration closes on Monday, July 20 at 11:59 PM CT. The event includes a post-race meal with pancakes and ice cream.
Course and logistics
The course uses forest trails and the back half of a winter course variant. It has approximately 1,100 feet of elevation gain packed into the 5K. A one-third mile section runs down the middle of the Embarras River; in July this stretch is ankle to knee deep with sandy bars and rocky riffles. Near the finish is a steep climb known as Billy Goat Hill.
On-site primitive tent camping is offered as a $10 add-on and must be set up by dark. Porta potties and an outdoor shower are available for campers. Lodging is also available nearby in Charleston, Illinois. Participants should plan for hot weather and bring appropriate footwear for wet and sandy river running. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.