The Universal Sole December Trail Challenge
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About the race
The Universal Sole December Trail Challenge is a trail race held on December 12, 2026 at Schiller Woods West Forest Preserve (Grove 3) in Chicago. The primary distance is 4.5 miles on an off road course that mixes crushed limestone, dirt, rocks and roots with sections of single and double track. The course is described as relatively flat for trail running and may include mud if conditions are wet.
Registration follows tiered fees by date, with increasing rates through race day; there are no refunds, exchanges or person-to-person entry transfers. Every registered runner receives a custom premium USOLE trail running trucker hat. Finish-line provisions include granola bars and bananas, and post race offerings include Will’s chili and brewed beverages for participants 21 and older. Magnesia natural mineral water will be available at the start and finish; aid on the trails is not provided due to Cook County Forest Preserve guidelines, so participants are advised to bring a bottle or hydration pack.
Race logistics note on-site packet pickup and race morning registration at the USOLE tents, ample Forest Preserve parking, and that strollers and leashed dogs are allowed if they start in the last corral. Awards include overall Female, Male and Non-Binary prizes with HOKA gear bags and age group awards for the top three in each listed age bracket. A post race raffle and a shoe recycling collection by Reduce Waste Chicago are part of the event. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
