Red Cedar Trail Races at Giant City State Park
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Red Cedar Trail Races at Giant City State Park
The Red Cedar Trail Races take place within Giant City State Park, located inside the Shawnee National Forest in southern Illinois. The event utilizes the Red Cedar Trail, occasionally intersecting with the River to River Trail and surrounding horse trails. The course features a variety of terrain including single-track trails, gravel road connectors, horse trails, fields, and a short section of paved road.
Participants can choose from several distances:
- 5k
- 13.6 Miles (Half-Marathon)
- 25 Miles (40k)
The 13.6 Miles and 25 Miles courses are technical in sections and include over 1,800 feet of elevation gain per loop. Runners may encounter creek crossings depending on recent rainfall. The 5k route begins on a service road for approximately 0.75 miles before joining the Red Cedar Trail. The 25 Miles event consists of two loops, while the 13.6 Miles event is a single loop.
This is a cupless race, meaning no cups are provided at aid stations. The 13.6 Miles and 25 Miles loops feature two stocked aid stations and two hydration stations. The 5k includes one hydration station at approximately the two-mile mark. The course is marked with ribbons, arrows, and directional signs. As the park remains open to the public, runners may encounter hikers or horseback riders on the trails.
The start and finish area is located at Pavilion 5. On-site facilities include the Giant City Lodge, which offers dining and cabin rentals within walking distance of the start line. Primitive and electric camping options are also available within the state park. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
