Lace up for the Route 66 10K, a premier running event held on June 13, 2026, in the charming city of Edwardsville, IL. Hosted by the Metro Milers running club, this race is more than just a 10K; it's an energetic kickoff to the vibrant City of Edwardsville's annual Route 66 Festival, immersing participants in a celebratory atmosphere from start to finish. Widely regarded as one of the Midwest's best races and a frequent RRCA Championship 10K, the Route 66 10K welcomes runners and walkers of all abilities to experience its well-loved course.
The challenging and interesting course begins and ends in Edwardsville's scenic City Park, guiding runners through the city's tree-lined streets before venturing onto the popular MCT Trails. While the initial miles offer a relatively easy start, runners should prepare for a "smallest of inclines" on the trail section, which can prove to be a "suffocating" test in the latter half of the race. Hydration stops along the route will keep you fueled with water and Gatorade, while the famed "themed spirit stations" are known to energize participants, often featuring unique surprises like Corvettes lining the finish approach. Typical race day conditions in mid-June bring highs around 87F and lows around 66F, with a modest 16% chance of precipitation.
Beyond the race itself, the event's integration with the Route 66 Festival provides an unparalleled experience, offering live music, a Kid Zone, a Roadside Market, and trolley tours throughout the day for participants and spectators. Finishers are celebrated with a high-quality technical shirt and a special swag item, ensuring a memorable reward for conquering this community-supported race.
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