Earth Day 50K / 15 Mile / 5 Mile Trail Race

The Earth Day 50k, 15 Mile, and 5 Mile trail races are scheduled for Saturday, April 18, 2026, at Veteran Acres in Crystal Lake, Illinois. Organized by Ornery Mule Racing, this event is designed as a "Personal Record" (PR) course, featuring rolling hills on a 5-mile single-track loop. All distances begin simultaneously at 8:00 AM, starting in a ball field to allow the field to spread out before entering the narrow trails. The race has an 8-hour total time limit and emphasizes environmental sustainability, operating as a "landfill-free" event where participants are required to provide their own water bottles.

Crystal Lake is a city in McHenry County, Illinois, located approximately 45 miles northwest of Chicago. The population is approximately 40,000 residents. The demographic profile of Crystal Lake is 79.1% White (Non-Hispanic), 13.5% Hispanic or Latino, 2.7% Asian, 1.1% Black or African American, and 3.2% from two or more races. The median annual household income is approximately $97,000. Geographically, Veteran Acres is known for its diverse terrain, including glacial topography that creates the "rolling hills" mentioned in the race description. The climate in mid-April typically sees average lows of 4°C (39°F) and highs of 15°C (59°F). While the trails are well-maintained, early spring in Northern Illinois can often result in soft or muddy conditions depending on recent rainfall.

Registration for the 2026 event closes on April 13th, with early bird pricing offered through late November. The race provides one major aid station at the start/finish area stocked with homemade treats and standard ultra fare. Packet pickup is available on Friday evening at the Ornery Mule Racing headquarters and on race morning at the pavilion. Awards are presented to the 1st overall male and female finishers, as well as winners in age groups ranging from under 29 to 60+. The 50K course record is held by Reese Slobodianuk, who set a time of 3:43:38 in 2023. The event also offers coaching and nutrition services through the organizers to assist runners in preparing for the technical demands of the glacial trail system.