Fancy Nonsense 25k/50k

The Fancy Nonsense 25k/50k returns to Willow Springs in Illinois on October 24th, offering a whimsical running experience along the trails of Deer Grove Forest Preserve. This year’s event marks its relocation due to ongoing renovations at Palos Forest Preserves from August through December, ensuring runners can enjoy uninterrupted single-track paths and rolling terrain within a scenic woodland setting.
Race morning in Willow Springs typically greets participants with crisp autumn air typical for late October. Temperatures hover around 13.7 degrees Celsius on average, ranging between early mornings of 9.1°C to midday highs of up to 18.2°C by the afternoon sun. The trail conditions are firm and slightly soft underfoot, providing a challenging yet runnable surface throughout both distances.
Established as part of CUSS (Curious Ultrarunner's Secret Society), this event aims to foster joy and laughter among runners while testing their physical endurance over 5.5-mile loops through Deer Grove Forest Preserve. The Fancy Nonsense series has been growing in popularity since its inception, drawing a community that embraces the spirit of adventure and imagination on these trails.
The course for both the 25k and 50k routes is set within the Palos Trail System near Red Gate Woods. Runners will navigate mostly single-track paths with aid stations spaced appropriately to provide essential supplies such as water, soda, snacks, and even doughnuts along the way. Cut-off times are strictly enforced for both races at 5pm.
To register online, participants should visit https://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=131599 before September 15th to secure a guaranteed race shirt. Packet pickup on event day is scheduled from 7:00am-8:45am for both distance groups at Red Gate Woods in Willow Springs, where runners will receive their fully marked course maps and pre-race briefings.
Starting lines are set up within Deer Grove Forest Preserve near the Palos Trail System’s main trailhead. For first-time attendees, it is recommended to arrive early on race morning with proper gear suited for cooler temperatures and variable weather conditions common in late October Illinois.
The Fancy Nonsense 25k/50k takes place in Willow Springs, IL, on October 24th, inviting runners of all backgrounds into a unique blend of physical challenge and whimsical adventure within the Deer Grove Forest Preserve.