Shawnee Hills Trail Races
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Shawnee Hills Trail Races - August 22 to 23, 2026
Shawnee Hills Trail Races take place at Camp Ondessonk in Ozark, IL, within the Shawnee National Forest. The course passes through sandstone canyon systems, Jackson Hollow, Bay Creek Reservoir, and several waterfalls including Pakentuck Falls, Jackson Falls, Horseshoe Falls, and Cedar Falls. Vegetation is primarily oak-hickory, maple-beech, and pine forest.
The route is a figure eight loop composed mostly of single track and dirt, with some fire roads. The terrain is hilly and technical, featuring rocks, roots, ruts, and creek crossings. Runners should expect heat and humidity and possible encounters with snakes, ground hornets, and bees native to the area.
Distances offered
- 100 Mile: one short 3-ish mile loop plus three 32-ish mile loops
- 100K: two 32-ish mile loops
- 50K: one 32-ish mile loop
- Half Marathon: about 13 miles on the west section of the loop
There will be five manned aid stations stocked with water, electrolyte drinks, snacks, and first aid. Aid stations are spaced roughly five miles apart, with no gap greater than approximately eight miles. Restrooms are provided at the start/finish and several aid stations.
All registered runners receive a custom event shirt with a shirt order deadline of August 5, 2026. Finisher awards include custom belt buckles for the 100 mile and 100K, and custom medals for the 50K and half marathon. Overall awards are given for male, female, and non binary winners.
Lodging at Camp Ondessonk includes tree houses for the weekend for runner plus one; additional people and extra tents incur a $10 fee. Update 7/28/26 notes tent camping is now FULL. Important registration deadlines include tiered price increases and lodging and shirt order cutoffs. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
