Lace up for an unforgettable autumn adventure at the Des Plaines River Trail Races on October 10, 2026, in Waukegan, IL. This beloved Midwest gem offers distances for every runner, including a Half Marathon, Marathon, 50K, and 50 Mile ultra, all unfolding on the scenic Des Plaines River Trail. Renowned for its exceptionally flat and fast course, runners will navigate a wide, well-maintained crushed limestone and gravel path that winds through picturesque Lake County Forest Preserves.

The out-and-back course treats participants to breathtaking "OMG-worthy" fall foliage, alternating between lush forests and open wetlands, with minimal elevation changes. Major road crossings are seamlessly managed by bridges and viaducts, ensuring a flow that makes this course ideal for chasing personal bests, with the Marathon proudly serving as a Boston Qualifier. Typical race day conditions in early October offer cool temperatures, with highs around 63F and lows around 45F, providing excellent running weather, though runners should be prepared for a slight chance of precipitation or some water on the trail after heavy rains.

Starting and finishing at the Half Day Forest Preserve in nearby Vernon Hills, the event is celebrated for its warm, welcoming atmosphere and stellar organization. Aid stations, strategically placed throughout the course and varying in number by distance, are well-stocked with typical ultra-fare and Gnarly drink, though participants should remember it's a cup-less race and bring their own hydration vessels. Many runners return year after year, drawn by the supportive volunteers, the beauty of the trail, and the chance to achieve their goals on this consistently fast and scenic route.