Shawnee Hills Trail Races
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Shawnee Hills Trail Races, Camp Ondessonk, Ozark IL
The Shawnee Hills Trail Races take place August 21–22, 2027 at Camp Ondessonk in Ozark, Illinois, within the Shawnee National Forest. The route runs through sandstone formations, oak-hickory, maple-beech and pine forests, and crosses areas such as Jackson Hollow, Bay Creek Reservoir, and Salomon's Ridge. The course passes several waterfalls including Pakentuck Falls, Jackson Falls, Horseshoe Falls, and Cedar Falls.
The course is a figure-eight loop with about 80% singletrack and some fire roads. Trails are technical with rocks, roots, ruts, and creek crossings. Elevation is hilly, with rollers of about 50 to 150 ft per climb and roughly 2,500 to 7,500 ft of total gain per 50 miles. Potential hazards include high heat and humidity and encounters with native snakes, ticks, ground hornets, and bees.
Distances offered:
- 100 Mile : prologue (~3 mi) plus three ~32-mile loops
- 100K : two ~32-mile loops
- 50K : one ~32-mile loop
- Night 50K : night version of the 32-mile loop
- Half Marathon : additional camp loop plus 13 miles on west loop
There are five manned aid stations stocked with water, electrolyte drinks, snacks, and first aid, with volunteers on site. Aid stations are spaced on average about 5 miles apart and no gap exceeds approximately 8 miles. Restrooms are at the start/finish and several aid stations.
Each registrant receives a custom event shirt by default; the women's option is a fitted tank and a unisex tee can be selected instead. Shirt order and some registration deadlines are August 1, 2027. Finisher awards include custom belt buckles for the 100 mile and 100K, and medals for the 50K and half marathon. Overall awards are given for male, female, and non-binary winners.
Lodging at Camp Ondessonk tree houses for two people (runner plus one) is included with registration; additional persons and extra tents incur a $10 fee. There are limited hostel style rooms on site, and nearby hotels and short term rentals in Vienna and Marion. Registration closes August 15, 2027. Tiered price increases occur January 1 and June 1, 2027. One pacer at a time is allowed for the 100 mile and 100K distances; pacers must complete required waiver and check in procedures. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
