Gristmill Grind 10K
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GristMill Grind : Franklin Grove, IL
The GristMill Grind takes place on September 5, 2026, at the Franklin Creek State Natural Area near Franklin Grove, Illinois. The event offers the following distances:
- 10K
- 5K
The course is a technical trail route that passes through ravines, limestone bluffs, forest canopy, and sections of gravel road. Runners follow trails with repeated uphill and downhill stretches and an average elevation gain of about 100 ft per mile. The route includes creek crossings: five crossings on the 10K and two crossings on the 5K.
Drinking water is available at the start/finish area and at the midcourse shelter used by the 10K. Participants are asked to bring a disposable cup or hydration bladder because cups will not be provided to reduce environmental impact. Check-in is at the Hausen Knox Shelter.
Registration windows and fees are listed by the organizer: early registration runs from 2025-09-01 through 2026-07-31 for $25, later registration is $35, and race-day registration is $45. Online registration closes on September 4, 2026. A commemorative T-shirt is available for $20 and is guaranteed for registrations completed before August 15, 2026.
Proceeds support the Franklin Creek Conservation Association for park programs, expansion, and improvements. Custom awards are presented to the top three male and top three female finishers in each distance and to top ruckers in each distance. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
