Shawnee Hills Trail Races

Event overview

The Shawnee Hills Trail Races take place at Camp Ondessonk in Ozark, Illinois on August 22-23, 2026. Distances offered include:

• 100 Mile - 1 short ~3-mile loop plus 3 × ~32-mile loops
• 100K - 2 × ~32-mile loops
• 50K - 1 × ~32-mile loop
• Night 50K - nighttime version of the 50K loop
• Half Marathon - ~13 miles on the west section of the loop

Registration is open for 2026 and closes on August 15, 2026. Important registration dates include tier price increases on January 1 and June 1, 2026, a lodging add-on and distance switch/drop deadline of August 1, 2026, and a guaranteed shirt deadline of August 10, 2026.

Course, logistics and awards

The course is a figure-eight loop with about 80% single-track dirt trail and some fire roads. Terrain is hilly and technical, with rocks, roots, ruts, and creek crossings. Runners may encounter heat, humidity, snakes, ground hornets, and bees. There are five manned aid stations stocked with water, electrolyte drinks, snacks, and first aid. Aid stations are spaced at roughly 5 miles apart, with no gap greater than approximately 8 miles. Restrooms are at the start/finish and several aid stations.

Pacer rules: pacers are allowed for the 100 Mile and 100K distances (one pacer at a time) and are not allowed for the 50K, Night 50K, or Half Marathon. All registered runners receive a custom event shirt; finisher awards include custom belt buckles for the 100M and 100K, and medals for the 50K and half marathon. Lodging options include included tree house accommodations for runner plus one, additional fees for extra people or tents, and limited hostel-style rooms. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.