Moraine Hills Run for the Hills

Moraine Hills Run for the Hills

Moraine Hills Run for the Hills is a multi-distance road and trail event held at Moraine Hills State Park in McHenry, Illinois. The event offers in-person and virtual options during September 2026. The virtual window runs from September 1 through September 27, 2026, and a virtual trifecta option allows completion of all three distances within that period.

Distances:

• 5K
• 10K
• Half Marathon

All three courses are entirely within Moraine Hills State Park and are closed to motorized vehicles. Surfaces are primarily crushed limestone with intermittent asphalt. The 5K follows the Leatherleaf Bog Trail. The 10K uses the Lake Defiance and Leatherleaf Bog Trails with views of lake and marsh areas. The half marathon follows the 10K route for the first segment, continues onto the McHenry Dam trail, and includes an out-and-back on the River Road bike trail before returning to Northern Woods.

Course marshals and directional arrows mark key intersections and turns. Water and Gatorade stations are placed along the route at roughly two mile intervals. Snacks are not supplied on course; bananas and water are provided at the finish. Restroom availability varies by distance: none on the 5K, two on the 10K, and three on the half marathon.

Packet pick up and official shirt distribution take place at a pre-race location in Crystal Lake on the days preceding the in-person event and on race day in the park. The event is organized by the Friends of Moraine Hills State Park and supports park programs, scholarships, and improvements. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.