Red Cedar Trail Races at Giant City State Park
Makanda, United States • 30 May 2026
Red Cedar Trail Races at Giant City State Park
The event takes place at Giant City State Park in the Shawnee National Forest with the start at Pavilion 5. The courses use the Red Cedar Trail and sometimes intersect the River to River Trail and nearby horse trails. Surfaces include mostly single track, gravel road connectors, horse trails, fields, and less than one mile of paved road connectors.
The half marathon is a single loop with over 1800 feet of elevation gain. The 40k consists of two loops of the half marathon course. Expect varying terrain from technical to runnable sections and possible creek crossings when water levels are higher. The new 5k uses a service road for about three quarters of a mile before joining the Red Cedar Trail and finishes on the same segment as the half marathon.
Aid is provided with two stocked aid stations and two hydration stations per loop. The 5k has a hydration station at about the two mile return to the finish. This is a cupless event; collapsible cups are available for purchase at check in for five dollars. Each participant receives a swag bag. A t shirt is available as a twelve dollar add on and guaranteed if requested by May 12. Half marathon and 40k finishers receive a finisher medal. Post race refreshments and a cooling towel are provided, plus an alcoholic or non alcoholic beverage with age restrictions applied. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.