Loud Thunder 50
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Loud Thunder 50 : April 17, 2027
An organized trail event by Sun Trail Running at Loud Thunder Forest Preserve near Illinois City, IL. The event offers the following distances:
- 50 Miler
- 50K
- 1/2 Marathon
The course is primarily a loop format based on a single full loop of about 13.3 miles. Runners will complete multiple loops depending on distance. Terrain is roughly 95% trail with a mix of dirt single and double track, short grass and crushed gravel connectors, and minimal pavement. Approximate elevation gain totals are ~6600 ft for the 50 mile, ~4000 ft for the 50K, and ~1900 ft for the half marathon. The route includes varied topography with steep climbs and descents and offers views of the Mississippi River and Lake George.
Two fully stocked aid stations are used, including the start/finish station; drop bags and crew access are allowed. The longest gap between aid stations is under 5 miles. Pacers are permitted only for the 50 mile distance and only for the final approximately 18 miles. Camping is available at the Horse Corral Campground and other park campgrounds; online reservations open March 1 with a two night minimum for online bookings and first come first serve single-night sites.
Registration is online only. There are no refunds or bib transfers. Deferral credits are available under specified deadlines and a waitlist is used once capacity is reached. Packet pickup occurs on race morning and unclaimed packets are not shipped. 50 mile finishers within the official 14 hour cutoff receive a finisher hoodie and a lightning bolt patch. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
