Tunnel Hill 100 & 50 Mile Runs
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Tunnel Hill 100 and associated distances in Vienna, Illinois
Tunnel Hill stages multiple certified endurance races on the Tunnel Hill State Trail with the start and finish at Vienna City Park. Distances offered include:
- 100 Miler
- 100 km
- USATF 50 Mile National Championship
- 50 Miler
- Marathon
The course uses a smooth crushed limestone rails trail with bridges, trestles, and an iconic tunnel. A single 50 mile loop consists of a southward run to the Wetlands Center turnaround, a 25 mile leg to a northern turnaround, and a return to Vienna City Park. The 100 mile is two repetitions of that loop. The 100km uses the same loop with a certified turnaround beyond the first southern aid station. Fifty kilometer and 50 mile runners pass through the tunnel twice; 100 mile runners pass through four times.
The event holds USATF and World Athletics certifications for marathon, 50 mile, 100 km, and 100 mile distances and carries IAU label designations. The 2026 event includes the USATF 50 Mile Road Championships; championship entrants must meet the championship eligibility requirements. Prize money and record bonuses are offered and winners must meet reporting requirements.
Aid stations provide standard food and hydration, very limited cups, toilets at selected stations, and drop bag support with a recommended small size. Shoe regulations follow IAU guidelines on sole thickness and plate count. Races use a 30 hour limit for 50 km 50 mile and 100 mile distances and list cutoff times at aid stations. Pacer rules and volunteer provisions are published and live tracking and results are available. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
