Cactus Classic Trail Races

MAR

7

2026

Celebrate 16 years of the Cactus Classic Trail Races in the unique pine and cactus landscape of Sand Ridge State Forest. Choose from marathon, half marathon, or 10K distances on sandy, rolling trails. The event starts and finishes at the Oak Campground.

Sat 7 Mar 2026

Topeka, Illinois

Registration

Marathon Half Marathon 10 kilometers

Always double-check with the organizer's website! This page may contain affiliate links.

Event Overview

The Cactus Classic Trail Races are trail running events held in Sand Ridge State Forest near Manito, Illinois. The 2026 edition marks the 16th anniversary of the event.

Course Details

The course takes place on the trails of Sand Ridge State Forest, starting and finishing at the Oak Campground. The trails run through pine forests and consist of loose, sandy soil, similar to running on a beach. The terrain includes many flat, runnable sections and several rolling sections. The event is named for the variety of cactus that grows wild throughout the park.

Distances

The event offers three race distances:

Marathon
1/2 Marathon
10K

Logistics

Packet pickup is available on race morning. Parking is located in the Oak Camp area, with overflow parking along Cactus Drive. A registration deadline for event shirts or hoodies is specified. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.

Marathon

Half Marathon

1/2 Marathon

10 km

10k