Crystal Lake Half Marathon
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Crystal Lake Half Marathon & 12K - Crystal Lake Main Beach
The 7th annual Crystal Lake Half Marathon and 12K takes place on September 6, 2026 at Crystal Lake Main Beach in Crystal Lake, Illinois. The event is point to point with finish in downtown Crystal Lake and a shared post race celebration.
Distances
- Half Marathon (13.1 miles)
- 12K (7.44 miles)
The half and 12K follow a route that includes a loop around Lippold Park, a view of the Dole Mansion, and a section on the Prairie Path. The 12K start is a short distance from the half start and both races finish together downtown. Buses transport participants to the start with an approximate five minute ride. Indoor and beach side warm up areas are available.
Support on course includes water stations approximately every 1.5 miles and Gatorade at miles 7.5, 9, 10.5 and 12. First aid and EMS are available along the course, with first aid kits at several water stations. The course is marked with turn arrows on the ground and staffed by course marshals. Bathrooms and portable toilets are located at the start, around mile 5, at mile 11 in the Prairie Path building, and at the finish.
Race entry includes a ticket for one beer or one non alcoholic beverage and a slice of pizza at the Smith Running Academy after party. Age group awards for 1st through 3rd place in the Half Marathon are presented at the after party. A youth program called Kids Run This Town prepares elementary aged children to run a 13th mile on race day after completing 12 miles over four weeks. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
