The 2026 Earth Day 50K will take place on Saturday, April 18, 2026, in Crystal Lake, Illinois, United States. The event will start and finish at the Veterans Acres Main Parking Lot, located at 431 N. Walkup, Crystal Lake, IL 60014, managed by the Crystal Lake Park District. The weather on this date is expected to be mild with temperatures ranging from 50°F to 65°F and mostly sunny conditions. Participants can expect a scenic trail race through single-track paths and rolling hills, designed to be both challenging and runnable. The race includes multiple distances, with all participants starting together at 8:00 AM. The course features a base 5-mile loop, with the 50K and 15-mile distances requiring multiple laps. Aid stations will provide snacks and drinks, and the event is working toward being landfill free, encouraging runners to bring their own water bottles. The time limit for completion is 8 hours.
What distances are available for this event?
→50K
→15-Mile
→5-Mile
What is the start time for the event?
→All distances start together at 8:00 AM.
Where is the event held?
→The event starts and finishes at the Veterans Acres Main Parking Lot, located at 431 N. Walkup, Crystal Lake, IL 60014.
What is the course like?
→The course is set on single-track trails through Veterans Acres Park, featuring rolling hills. It is designed as a PR trail race, meaning it is challenging but runnable. All distances start together in a ball field, then loop around a pond before entering the single track.
What is the time limit for completing the event?
→The time limit is 8 hours to complete the race.
What is included in the race packet?
→The race packet includes access to the event, participation in the race, and eligibility for awards. Specific items included in the packet are not detailed in the provided information.
What are the packet pick-up details?
→Packet pick-up is available on Friday, April 17, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Ornery Mule Racing Trailhead/HQ, located at 824 S. Main Street, Crystal Lake, IL 60014.
→On race day, packet pick-up is available starting at 6:30 AM at the pavilion near the main parking lot.
What are the award categories for this event?
→Awards are given for 1st Overall Male & Female per distance (not eligible for age group awards).
→Age Group awards are given for Male and Female participants in the following age categories: Under 29, 30–39, 40–49, 50–59, 60+.
What are the requirements for being eligible for awards?
→To be eligible for awards, participants must make any distance changes by April 8, 2026.
What is the deferral and rollover policy?
→Full rollover credit: Cancel by 70 days before the event via Ultrasignup.
→50% OMR race credit: Cancel by 25 days before the event.
→80% rollover credit: Volunteer for 6 hours at the race (last-minute option).
→No refunds; no exceptions.
What are the aid stations like during the event?
→There is one major aid station at the start/finish area, stocked with cookies, PB&J, chips, pretzels, sports drink, and soda.
Is the event environmentally conscious?
→The race is working toward being landfill free and encourages participants to bring their own water bottles.
What is the event's focus?
→The event focuses on trail running, environmental awareness, and community engagement. It provides a challenging yet rewarding experience for runners of all levels.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When is 2026 Earth Day 50K?
A: The event takes place on 18 April 2026.
Q: Where is the event held?
A: The event is held in Crystal Lake, United States.
