Red Cedar Trail Races at Giant City State Park
- Date Sat 30th May 2026
- Time 7:00AM CDT
- Location Makanda, Illinois
- Price $33.77 - $71.20
- Races 3 races
- Distances 5km, Half Marathon
Event summary
Whether you're a seasoned runner or a newcomer, this event is designed to inspire everyone, especially our youth, with a capped entry fee of just $40 for teen and cross country runners. Participants can enjoy an array of amenities, including well-stocked aid stations, a fabulous swag bag, and a celebratory beer for finishers over 21! With options for dining and lodging at the nearby Giant City Lodge, as well as camping opportunities in the park, this event is a perfect way to celebrate the outdoors with friends and family. Don’t miss out on this amazing trail race experience!
Organiser's Description
NEW FOR 2026: For anyone not yet ready for the half marathon, you can get a taste of the trail with a new 5k option! We will utilize a service road for approximately 3/4 of a mile before connecting to the Red Cedar Trail. The rest of the 5k course will finish the same as the half marathon course.
NEW FOR 2025: A second loop has been added to bring twice the distance, and twice the fun!
The 2026 course starts at Pavilion 5 for all events. Start/Finish GPS [https://maps.app.goo.gl/Pcd6C3yL3Kb8GmPE7] Packet pickup will be at 6-6:45 am the day of the event. Early packet pickup will be 5-6 pm at Pavilion 5 (also the start/finish). The course mostly utilizes the Red Cedar Trail sometimes intersecting with the River to River Trail and some surrounding horse trails. The course will be well-marked with ribbons and arrows. All intersections will have directional signs and confidence markers. Be aware that this is also an open course. You may encounter casual hikers and/or horseback riders. Be courteous, slow down, and announce your presence as you approach for everyone's safety.
There will be 2 well-stocked aid stations on the course, and 1 water station for the half marathon. Be prepared to be self-sufficient between aid stations, and be aware that it may take an hour or more depending on your physical condition. This is a cupless race. There will be no cups on the race course. Prepare accordingly.
SWAG: Each participant will receive a swag bag full of goodies, with the option to receive a t-shirt for a $10 add-on. Each finisher will receive a medal and a beer from the air-conditioned lodge! (Must be 21 years-of-age or older) You may also select a non-alcoholic beverage. LAST DAY FOR GUARANTEED SHIRT IS APRIL 20TH.
The Giant City Lodge also offers dining options for participants, family, and friends for a post-race meal. Be sure to check out their famous fried chicken!
If you would like sleeping accommodations, the Giant City Lodge has cabins to rent. May is a busy month, so call and book early! (618) 457-4921 Located along the race course, Giant City State Park also has electric and primitive camping options. If a hotel is more your style, Carbondale is only 15-20 minutes away. Also located nearby are many BnB options.
Races
-
Taste of Red Cedar 5k
Incl. $3.77 Fee & T-Shirt
Sat 30th May 2026 (8:00AM CDT)
$33.77
OPENS 01 JAN 26 -
Red Cedar Trail 1/2 Marathon
Incl. $5.16 Fee & T-Shirt
Sat 30th May 2026 (7:30AM CDT)
$55.16
OPENS 07 JAN 26 -
Red Cedar Trail 40k
Incl. $6.20 Fee & T-Shirt
Sat 30th May 2026 (7:00AM CDT)
$71.20
OPENS 07 JAN 26
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Giant City Lodge Rd, Pavilion 5, Makanda, 62958, IL, United States
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Red Cedar Trail Races at Giant City State Park