The Forge Trail Run Festival

The Forge Trail Run Festival

The Forge Trail Run Festival takes place in Lemont, Illinois, offering a variety of distances through a mix of wooded and open terrain. The event features four specific distances:

• 10K (one lap)
• 20K Half Marathon (two laps)
• 30K (three laps)
• 60K Ultramarathon (six laps)

The course is set within The Forge and adjoining trail systems, including areas around the historic Lemont Quarries and the I&M Canal. Participants run on a combination of single-track and double-track trails, along with some flat gravel sections. The single-track portions feature variable surfaces such as dirt, grass, rocks, mud, roots, and mulch.

While the gravel sections are level, the single-track segments include several short but steep inclines and declines. There are no significant overall elevation changes, though some sections are considered technical due to the variable terrain. Athletes are encouraged to wear trail running shoes and carry their own hydration and fuel, as there are no aid stations for the 10K distance. For the longer distances, a staffed aid station is positioned at the start of subsequent laps.

All races start and finish within The Forge. Parking is available in designated gravel lots near the entry bridges. On-site packet pick-up is provided on the day of the event, with an additional pick-up window available the evening prior at a local brewery in Lemont. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.