Outlast Chicago
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OUTLAST CHICAGO
OUTLAST CHICAGO takes place October 24 to October 25, 2026 in Palatine, Illinois at Deer Grove East (1599 Pepper Tree Dr). The event runs as two separate 6 hour challenges, one on Saturday and one on Sunday.
The format is a 6 hour endurance challenge in which participants complete a 5K every hour. Each lap must be finished within the hour to remain in the event; missing a lap removes the participant. Each 5K is timed individually and, if all six laps are completed, the combined time counts toward local results and the national leaderboard. Walking is allowed as long as each lap is finished within the hour.
The route is presented as trail terrain and organizers note the course is on a paved trail; the event description also references trail features such as elevation and variable conditions. Aid is provided at the basecamp with water, basic hydration, and snacks. This is a cupless event so participants are expected to bring their own bottle or hydration system. Participants may set up personal tents or aid stations.
Awards and recognition include patches for four and five laps, a premium OUTLAST medal for six laps, and a premium OUTLAST tee for all participants. Top male and female finishers by combined time win local 1st Place OUTLAST awards. Finishers are ranked nationally and the fastest across all OUTLAST 6 hour events earns a $1,000 national prize. Top five male and female finishers from each city qualify for the Outlast Championship in DFW on December 4, 2027 with cash prizes for the top three. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.