Moraine Hills Run for the Hills
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Moraine Hills Run for the Hills
The Moraine Hills Run for the Hills is an annual event held at Moraine Hills State Park in McHenry, Illinois. The event features multiple distances and categories for both runners and walkers, primarily taking place on the park's trail system.
The following distances are available for in-person participants:
- 5 km Run/Walk
- 10 km Run/Walk
- Half Marathon Run/Walk
The 5 km course follows the Leatherleaf Bog Trail, which consists of a mix of asphalt and crushed limestone surfaces. The 10 km route encompasses the Lake Defiance and Leatherleaf Bog Trails, offering views of the lake and local marshlands. Participants in the Half Marathon follow the 10 km course for the first 6 miles before transitioning to a loop of the McHenry Dam trail and an out-and-back section on the River Road bike trail.
All courses are located entirely within the state park and are closed to motorized vehicles. The terrain is characterized by a combination of crushed limestone trails and intermittent asphalt. Course marshals and directional arrows are stationed at key intersections and turns to guide participants. Water and electrolyte drinks are provided at stations approximately every 2 miles along the route. Restrooms are available at various intervals on the 10 km and Half Marathon courses.
A virtual participation option is also available, allowing individuals to complete their chosen distance between September 1 and September 27. Virtual participants can use the ASICS Runkeeper app or manual submission to record their results. The event is organized by the Friends of Moraine Hills State Park, an all-volunteer organization that supports habitat restoration and educational programs within the park. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
