Red Cedar Trail Races at Giant City State Park
Makanda, United States • 30 May 2026
Event details
The Red Cedar Trail Races take place on May 30, 2026, at Giant City State Park in Makanda, IL. All events start and finish at Pavilion 5 near the ball field on Giant City Lodge Road. Distances offered include:
- 5 km Taste of Red Cedar 5k
- 21.1 km Red Cedar Trail 1/2 Marathon
- 40 km Red Cedar Trail 40k (two loops)
Each finisher receives a medal and may choose a beer or a non-alcoholic drink (21+ for alcohol). Participants receive a swag bag; a t-shirt is available for a $10 add-on. The last day for a guaranteed shirt is April 20. Packet pickup is available the evening before at Pavilion 5 and on race morning at the same location.
Course and logistics
The course mostly uses the Red Cedar Trail with occasional intersections with the River to River Trail, horse trails, and gravel or paved connectors. The half marathon loop includes over 1500 feet of elevation gain. Terrain ranges from single track to gravel roads and fields, and several creek crossings are possible depending on rain. The race is cupless; there will be two well-stocked aid stations on the course and one water station for the half marathon. The course will be marked with ribbons and arrows. This is an open course where runners may encounter hikers and horseback riders. Camping and cabin rentals are available at Giant City Lodge; Carbondale is about 15-20 minutes away. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.