Shawnee Hills Trail Races

Shawnee Hills Trail Races : Ozark, Illinois

Shawnee Hills Trail Races is a multi-distance trail event held at Camp Ondessonk in Ozark, Illinois, within the Shawnee National Forest. The route explores sandstone canyon systems, waterfalls, and ridge views through oak-hickory, maple-beech, and pine forests. Named waterfalls on course include Pakentuck Falls, Jackson Falls, Horseshoe Falls, and Cedar Falls, with views from Salomon's Ridge.

The course is a figure eight loop composed of about 80 percent single-track dirt trail with some fire roads. Terrain is hilly and technical, with many rocks, roots, ruts and creek crossings. Weather exposure may include heat and humidity. Wildlife hazards noted include snakes, ground hornets and bees.

Distances offered

• 100 Mile (1 short ~3 mile loop then 3 x ~32 mile loops)
• 100K (2 x ~32 mile loops)
• 50K (1 ~32 mile loop)
• Night 50K (50K course run at night)
• Half Marathon (~13 miles on the west section of the loop)

Five manned aid stations provide water, electrolyte drinks, snacks and first aid. Distances between aid stations average about 5 miles with no gap greater than approximately 8 miles. Restrooms are available at Start/Finish, Trigg Tower, Jackson Falls, Cinder Path and Cedar Road aid stations.

Registered runners receive a custom event shirt. Finisher awards include custom belt buckles for 100 mile and 100K, medals for 50K and half marathon, and overall awards by gender and non binary category. Lodging options include included tree house accommodation for runner plus one and limited hostel style rooms. Camping details and some deadline dates are listed for shirts, lodging add ons and registration. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.