Des Plaines River Trail Races
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Des Plaines River Trail Races
The Des Plaines River Trail Races feature multiple endurance trail distances that start and finish at Half Day Forest Preserve in Lake County, Illinois. The event is held on the Des Plaines River Trail and is staged each year on the second weekend of October; the 2026 date is October 10, 2026. Registration opens January 1st.
Course and surface details: the trail is very flat, wide, and composed of crushed gravel, with a surface described as free of roots and rocks. The route passes through alternating lush forests and open wetlands. Major road crossings are carried by bridges or viaducts; only a few minor road crossings occur on the longer distances. The course is primarily trail with a small number of road crossings.
Distances offered:
- Half Marathon
- Marathon (Boston Qualifier)
- 50 km
- 50 mile
Race logistics information covers aid station locations and drop bag procedures. The event is presented as the 14th edition of these races and notes conditions conducive to fast times, citing cool temperatures, flat terrain, and the running surface. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
