Cactus Classic Trail Race

Lace up for an unforgettable off-road challenge at the Cactus Classic Trail Race on March 7, 2026, in Manito, IL. Celebrating its 16th anniversary, this unique event, organized by Mayhem Race Management, plunges runners into the picturesque pine forests of Sand Ridge State Forest. Choose your adventure from a 10K (approximately 6.4 miles), Half Marathon (approximately 13.4 miles), or tackle the Marathon, which consists of two loops of the half marathon course. The course offers a distinctive blend of flat runnable sections and rolling terrain, primarily on loose sandy soil that runners often describe as being similar to running on a beach. Keep an eye out for the wild cacti that lend the race its name and dot the landscape.

The Cactus Classic promises an authentic trail running experience with 90% un-paved trails. The race begins and ends at the welcoming Oak Campground, where packet pickup starts race morning at 6:45 AM for an 8 AM start. Aid stations are strategically placed along the routes, with the first at about 2.1 miles and an unmanned station at approximately mile 5 offering water and sports drinks. Due to the spacing, especially on the longer distances, half marathon and marathon runners are encouraged to carry a handheld water bottle or hydration pack. Typical race day conditions in early March bring cool temperatures, with highs around 47°F and lows near 29°F, and a modest 12% chance of precipitation, ensuring a brisk and generally dry run.