Moraine Hills Run for the Hills
Always double-check with the organizer's website! This page may contain affiliate links.
Event Overview
The Moraine Hills Run for the Hills is an in-person and virtual running and walking event taking place on Saturday, September 26, 2026. The in-person event is held at Moraine Hills State Park in McHenry, Illinois. It is the 17th annual event organized by the volunteers of the Friends of Moraine Hills State Park, with all proceeds supporting park improvements, educational programs, and environmental scholarships.
Participants can choose from three distances, each with separate run and walk categories (except the 5K, which is combined):
- 5K Run/Walk
- 10K Run/Walk
- Half Marathon Run/Walk
A virtual participation option is available from September 1 through September 27, 2026.
Course Details
All three courses are entirely within Moraine Hills State Park on trails closed to motorized vehicles. The surfaces are primarily crushed limestone with some asphalt. The 5K uses the Leatherleaf Bog Trail. The 10K route includes the Lake Defiance and Leatherleaf Bog Trails, featuring lake and marsh views. The Half Marathon follows the 10K course for the first 6 miles before extending onto the McHenry Dam trail and River Road bike trail for a full tour of the park.
Participation Details
Packet and shirt pickup is available before the event at The Running Depot in Crystal Lake, Illinois, and on race day at the park. Course marshals and arrows will be present at key intersections. Water stations are provided approximately every two miles. Medals are awarded to the top three finishers in each category. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
