The 2026 Cactus Classic Trail Races will take place on March 7th, 2026, in Manito, Illinois, near Sand Ridge State Forest. The event is set in a scenic pine forest environment, with the start and finish line at the Oak Campground. The race course runs through trails with loose sandy soil, creating a unique running experience similar to running on a beach. The weather on the event date is expected to be mild, with temperatures ranging from 40°F to 55°F and partly cloudy skies. Participants can expect a challenging yet scenic trail race that highlights the natural beauty of the area, with opportunities to spot wild cactus along the way.
What distances are available for this event?
→10K (approximately 6.4 miles)
→Half Marathon (approximately 13.4 miles)
→Marathon (2 loops of the half marathon course)
What is the course layout for the 10K race?
The 10K course (Green route) is a clockwise loop starting and finishing at the Oak Campground. It features shared sections with the half marathon and marathon courses. Key points include:
→First road crossing and Aid Station #1 at mile 2.1
→Second road crossing at mile 3.44
→Third road crossing and Aid Station #4 at mile 4.4
→Fourth and final road crossing at mile 5.75
→Finish line at mile 6.4
What is the course layout for the half marathon and marathon?
The half marathon and marathon courses (Blue route) begin on the 10K course but split off shortly after the first aid station (at mile 2.35). Key points include:
→Aid Station #1 at mile 2.1 (shared with 10K)
→Aid Station #2 at mile 5 (unmanned; water and Gatorade only)
→Aid Station #3 at approximately mile 9
→Aid Station #4 at mile 11.4 (shared with 10K)
→The remainder of the course is shared with the 10K race
→Marathon participants complete two loops of the half marathon course
What awards and recognition are offered?
For the 10K race:
→Overall Male and Female winners
→Age Group Awards (1st-3rd place Male/Female) for:
• Juniors: 17 and under
• Open: 18-39
• Masters: 40-55
• Grand Masters: 56 and up
For the half and full marathon:
→Overall Male and Female winners for each distance
→Finishers Medals for all finishers awarded at the finish line
What participant SWAG is available?
→10K registrants may receive a commemorative shirt with the race logo
→Half Marathon and Marathon registrants may receive a hooded sweatshirt
Note: Late or race-day registrants are not guaranteed SWAG items, though limited quantities may be available for purchase on race day
What are the time limits for the marathon?
Marathon participants may be prevented from starting their second loop if they exceed 3.5 hours for the first loop or at the discretion of the Race Director due to the challenging nature of the course
What is the schedule for packet pickup and race day logistics?
→Packet pickup is available on race morning from 6:45 AM to 7:50 AM
→Primary parking is in the Oak Camp area; overflow parking is available along Cactus Drive
→Any downgrades in race distance must be completed before the race start to avoid being marked as DNF
How much does registration cost?
→10K: $60
→Half Marathon: $80
→Full Marathon: $100
Note: This pricing does not include shirt or hoodie
What is the significance of the Cactus Classic Trail Races?
This event marks the 16th Anniversary of the Cactus Classic Trail Races, which were founded in 2010. The race is named for the variety of wild cactus found throughout Sand Ridge State Forest, and participants are encouraged to keep an eye out for them during the course
What safety and course considerations should participants be aware of?
→All road crossings are unassisted, and runners must use caution
→Half and full marathon participants are advised to carry a handheld water bottle or hydration pack, especially depending on weather conditions
→The course features loose sandy soil, which may affect running conditions
