CHICAGO - TRAIL RUNNING FESTIVAL

What is this race?

A premier trail running experience built for runners who want more than pavement and predictable miles. This event is designed to challenge runners across a variety of distances, including the 5K, 10K, 10K Ruck, 20K, 30K, and 50K. Each course features elevation changes, rugged terrain, and an unforgettable race-day atmosphere unlike anything else in the region.

Whether you're tackling your first trail race or taking on an ultramarathon, every distance offers an opportunity to test your endurance, strength, and grit while experiencing some of the best trails the region has to offer.

What You Get:

​​- A premium Trail Running Festival Tee for ALL DISTANCES

- 1st place male/female trophy for ALL DISTANCES

- 50K Finishers - "50K" Inscription on back of medal 

- 50K last place - dfl "dead freakin" last trophy

​- 10K RUCK - Ruck Patch

Frequently Asked Questions:

Do I have to run the whole time?
Nope. Walking is allowed, as long as you finish before the cutoff time. But some courses are rugged, and time can sneak up on you.

What happens if I don’t finish in time?
Runners who do not finish their distance before the cutoff time get marked at DNF (Did not Finish) status on the race results.

Are these trail races or road?
Every race is on trail terrain — dirt, rocks, roots, and elevation. Sometimes some pavement and gravel.

What's the ruck weight requirement?
- If you weigh more than 150 lbs = 30 lb. Ruck
- If you weigh less than 150 lbs = 20 lb. Ruck
- Ruck sack or vest allowed

Are there aid stations?
Yes. There will be stations with water, basic hydration, and snacks along the course. This is a cupless event — bring your own bottle or hydration system. 

What should I bring?
Trail shoes, hydration system, layers (weather dependent), fuel between loops, and grit.

Is this for beginners?
Yes. We welcome runners of all experience levels. With distances ranging from 5K to 50K, there's a challenge for everyone—from first-time trail runners to seasoned veterans.

More Information/Policies/FAQ

For more detailed information, including the course map, other event info, and aid stations, please visit www.TexasOutlawRunning.com

For Policies regarding event communication, refunds/credits, discounts, ensuring race shirts/swag, lower entry prices, and changing distance, visit our Policies Page.

For other questions, please make sure to look at our Frequently Asked Questions page before contacting us. If the answer is on that page, we may not respond. You can contact us by visiting our website. 

CHICAGO Trail Running Festival will be held at Goodenow Nature Preserve (27064 Dutton Rd, Beecher, IL 60401) 

SCHEDULE - Friday

4:00-6:00PM - Early Packet Pickup (at Goodenow Nature Preserve - PIN)

SCHEDULE - Saturday

*Please arrive 60-45 min. before your start time*

6:00-7:30AM - Packet Pickup

7:00AM - 50K START

7:15AM - 30K, 20K, 10K, & 10K  RUCK START

7:30AM - 5K START

5:00PM - CUTOFF (8 hours)

COURSE OVERVIEW

Strava Map Link - CLICK HERE

- Surface: Gravel & dirt single-track trails
- Elevation: Showing 170ft per 10K loop (rolling hills)
- Weather: Historic Average of 53-80 degrees
- Pacer: No Pacers Allowed

AID STATIONS

Plum Creek Aid Station (0/6.2) - hot/cold foods, snacks, water, electrolytes, pickle juice & ice

Water Station (1.3/5.3) - water only

VOLUNTEER

Volunteering is a great way to support the running community, meet fellow runners, and be part of what makes race day special for everyone.

If you’re interested and able to help, please sign up here: 

IMPORTANT INFO

- ALL PARTICIPANTS who drop early/quit must let the race director know at the start/finish line
- Park in designated parking spots ONLY
- NO LITTERING & NO COURSE CUTTING
- Water carrying system required for ALL events

Price Increases

Early Bird (till June 12)
Standard (June 13 through August 29)
Late Registration (August 30 through Sept 9)
Race Weekend (September 10, if spots remain)