Outlast Chicago
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OUTLAST CHICAGO
OUTLAST CHICAGO takes place October 24–25, 2026 at Deer Grove East, 1599 Pepper Tree Dr, Palatine, IL 60067. The event runs two separate 6 hour challenge events, one on Saturday and one on Sunday.
OUTLAST is a 6 hour trail endurance format in which participants run a 5K every hour, on the hour. Each lap must be completed within the hour to continue to the next round; finishing early simply yields time to rest before the next lap, while missing a lap eliminates a participant. Completing all six laps earns the full OUTLAST designation.
The course is trail based and may include natural terrain, elevation changes, and sections of pavement or gravel. Aid is provided at the basecamp or loop start with water, basic hydration, and snacks; this is a cupless event so participants should bring their own bottle or hydration system. Walking is permitted as long as each 5K is finished within the hour. Participants may set up a personal tent or aid station.
Recognition is awarded by laps: 4 laps earns a "Grit Earned" patch, 5 laps earns a "Survivor" patch, and 6 laps earns a premium OUTLAST medal. All participants receive a premium OUTLAST tee. Top male and female combined 5K times at each event win the 1st Place OUTLAST award. Finishers are ranked on a national leaderboard; the fastest across all OUTLAST 6 hour events is eligible for a national prize of $1,000. Top city champions can qualify for a championship event with additional prize money. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.