The Next Loop 40M/50M Challenge | Half Day Forest Preserve

Saturday, August 29, 2026 Past event
7:00 AM CDT
Vernon Hills, Illinois
$263.50 · 1 race
Ultra

Event summary

Get ready for an exhilarating challenge at The Next Loop 40M/50M Challenge, taking place on Saturday, August 29, 2026, in the scenic Vernon Hills, Lake. This unique endurance race invites runners to conquer either a 40-mile or 50-mile distance on a continuous 3.1-mile (5K) loop trail, designed to push your limits while providing a fully supported experience. Participants will enjoy the thrill of running alongside fellow competitors in a centralized course, with access to aid stations at every lap and a designated personal staging area.

Whether you're a first-time ultra-distance runner, a marathon veteran looking to take on a new challenge, or an experienced ultrarunner seeking a fast course with simplified logistics, this event is perfect for you! Embrace the opportunity to focus on pacing, fueling, and mental toughness in a supportive environment that encourages camaraderie and achievement. Don’t miss out on this exciting day of endurance and adventure!

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Races

  • 40M, 50M

    Incl. $13.50 Fee & T-Shirt

    7:00 AM CDT

    $263.50

    Entries closed

Organiser's description

THE 40/50 MILE CHALLENGE

The 40/50 Mile Challenge is a continuous loop endurance race designed for runners who want to push beyond traditional race formats while benefiting from a fully supported, centralized course.

Held alongside The Next Loop Endurance Series, this event runs on the same 3.1-mile (5K) loop, but unlike the hourly format, competitors in the 40/50 Mile Challenge run continuously with a strict time cutoff.

This format offers a true ultra-distance experiencesimplified logistics, consistent footing, and constant access to aid and support.

EVENT FORMAT
Distances: 40 Miles or 50 Miles
Loop Length: 3.1 miles (5K)
Course Type: Continuous loop trail race
Time Limit: 12 hours
Start/Finish: Same location each loop
Aid Station: Fully stocked at every lap
Staging Area: Designated personal staging area near start/finish

Runners complete repeated loops until they reach their chosen distance or the time limit expires.

WHO SHOULD RUN THE 40/50 MILE CHALLENGE

This event is ideal for:

Runners attempting their first ultra distance
Athletes stepping up from a marathon or 50K
Experienced ultrarunners seeking a fast, efficient course
Competitors who value logistics simplicity and strong support

The loop format removes navigation concerns and allows athletes to focus entirely on pacing, fueling, and mental toughness.

Location

24255 N Highway 21, Vernon Hills, 60061, IL, United States

Event data

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