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Marathon Details - Des Plaines River Trail Marathon

North America Marathons > USA > IL > Lake County Forest Preserves > Des Plaines River Trail Marathon

Des Plaines River Trail Marathon

Des Plaines River Trail Marathon & Half Marathon, 50 Mile Ultra Marathon, 50K

Lake County Forest Preserves, IL USA

October 12, 2024

http://www.desplainesrivertrailraces.com

Marathon Results

By Year:

2024 2023 2022 2021 2019 2018 2017 2016 2015 2014 2013 2012 2011 2010 Top 3 Finishers

Race Details

Flat and fast course on crushed limestone along the scenic Des Plaines River Trail about 25 miles north of Chicago

Contact Information

Name:	Ed Kelly
Address:	1312 W. Park St. Arlington Heights, IL 60005
Phone Number:	847-476-5645
Email:	Email the organizers

More Information

These details were last updated by the race director on 12/28/23 and may be out of date.
Number of Runners:	750
Fees & Deadlines:	Registration deadline is September 29, 2024
Start Time:	8:00 AM
Course Highlights:	The DPR Trail is a wide, crushed gravel track, free of roots and rocks, and very flat. All of the major road crossings are managed by way of bridges or viaducts (with only 4 minor road crossings along the whole 50 Mile course, 2 on the Marathon course, and none for the Half-Marathon course). This is a great track through alternating lush forests and open wetlands. With cool temperatures expected, and given the flat terrain and ideal running surface, you'll find these to be extremely fast courses. The Marathon is a Boston Qualifier!
Course Refreshments:	Aid stations approximately every 4-5 miles
Certified? Certification:	Yes, USATF: IL23017NM
Race Day Registration:	no
Online Registration:	http://www.ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?eid=2319
Marathon Ratings:	Course Scenery/Beauty/Interest: Good for First Timers: Crowd Support: Course Speed:

Runner Reviews (18)

Course 4.8

Organization 4.7

Spectators 3.2

Write a review

Number of comments: 18 [displaying comments 1 to 11]

More Comments: [ < 1 2 > ]

R. P. from Illinois (10/17/2019) "Easy Trail Marathon" (about: 2019) 50+ previous marathons \| 1 Des Plaines River Trail Marathon COURSE: 4 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 3 This trail run is easy because the trail is wide and flat with no problems, EXCEPT the multiple long water obstacles. The 2019 racecourse was modified to 6.55-mile loops because of major flooding, which was well managed. GREAT race support for the 50 milers, marathoners and half marathoners. I highly recommend.
A. B. from Boston area, MA (11/29/2017) "Excellent choice for IL" (about: 2017) 50+ previous marathons \| 1 Des Plaines River Trail Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 3 I participated in this marathon as a part of my 50 state marathon quest and I was really happy with my choice for Illinois. To be honest, I had originally wanted to do Chicago but once they changed to a lottery system I needed to find another choice to guarantee my 50 state finish by a certain time. I'm so glad I ended up doing this marathon. As others mentioned, the weather conditions were not ideal in 2017-torrential rain, mud, thunderstorms, etc. but I give huge kudos to the race directors for allowing the race to go on anyway. Their advice if you got nervous about the lightning was to seek shelter but they were clear that the race would not be cancelled. I really appreciated this since I was finishing the 50 states 2 weeks later and wouldn't be able to fit in another IL marathon. I ended up staying in the city of Chicago because I was there for a few days and wanted to do some city sightseeing. However, I did see how the Extended Stay was right across the street. The drive from the city was totally fine, though, and didn't take very long. Everything was easy, convenient and well-marked at the starting area. There were porta-potties as well as sheltered bathrooms. There were wave starts for both the marathon and half marathon based on pace (the 50 miler started earlier). The course was really beautiful and had the weather been better I would have been able to better appreciate the scenery. Lots of water views and lots of trees. The trail was mostly gravel though there were a lot of leaves down in certain sections. The race communication was excellent so I knew what to expect on the course in terms of aid. The aid stations were excellent with friendly volunteers who had to withstand the rain (though most had tents). There was a great variety of food and drink available (probably in part because they needed to cater to the needs of the 50 mile participants). I walked the race and it is very walker-friendly because of the 50 miler which is going on concurrently. There were a few other walkers but there were plenty of times I was by myself. However, the faster 50 milers passed me towards the end and most of them were very encouraging and friendly. The race medal had a word misspelled on it but the race directors kindly mailed us a new one. The race shirt was nice and we also got a bandana type of head covering. I really appreciated getting a burger at the finish line. There was a shelter with picnic tables where we could eat. There was also other food available. There is something special about trail races. People tend to be very friendly and easygoing. I would highly recommend this race. I would definitely go back and do the half marathon now that my marathon career is over.
M. M. from Lexington, KY (10/31/2017) "Will be doing this again!" (about: 2017) 2 previous marathons \| 1 Des Plaines River Trail Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 4 I can't say enough good things about this race! The volunteers were amazing (especially considering that it was raining for most of the day), the race was well organized and stayed on time, the scenery was beautiful and the food at the aid stations and at the end was wonderful. We will definitely be doing this race again. Oh, at the people at the Extended Stay across the street were super-friendly and helpful. We will be staying there next year as well.
R. V. from California (10/16/2017) "Awesome" (about: 2017) 50+ previous marathons \| 1 Des Plaines River Trail Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 4 Super organization and logistics. Couldn't have been much easier or better organized. Race morning packet pick up was a breeze. Pre-race they had everything you need - changing tent, gear storage, coffee, snacks etc. More than enough porta potties. Races went off right on time. I can't say enough good things about the volunteers who endured the downpours, mud and soggy conditions. The aid stations were the best I've ever seen, well stocked, great volunteers filling water bottles, passing out food & drinks. Without exception they made us feel welcomed and made sure we had everything we wanted (loved the BP&Js). Nice course through scenic woods. Great job with the course markings. we had soggy conditions and heavy rain, but still a great course and kept things interesting. The Extended Stay America was literally across the street from the park entrance making things easy. They were super nice! At check in when they found out I was running they gave me a lower rate than I had already booked (who does that?) They even let me back in to my room after the race so I could clean up and dry off. Absolutely worth doing this race.
J. N. from Illinois (10/15/2017) "A scenic, enjoyable marathon" (about: 2017) 4-5 previous marathons \| 1 Des Plaines River Trail Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 2 This was a very nice course and well-organized. I ran it in 2017 and we were presented with a challenge in that it rained most of the day. The trail was pretty soggy and it wasn't the most pleasant weather by any means. But the race organizers pulled off everything quite well and were determined to let us run no matter what the elements brought. The course is very nice scenery and very flat, with just a few very minor changes in elevation here or there. The aid stations are well stocked but are about three miles apart so plan on bringing your own hydration if necessary. I do wish the garbage cans near the aid stations would have been slightly farther down the path. As it was, if you were planning on running straight through the aid stations you had to chug the water quickly and slow down so that you could throw away the cup in the garbage can before passing it. Also there were two road crossings that did not have anyone directing traffic. I managed to get through them without stopping but I saw some people who had to stop and wait for cars. It would be nice if they had someone to direct this. There were not many spectators on the course, but that's ok. I knew that going in and didn't expect many. The aid station volunteers were very enthusiastic! The start/finish area is very nice and spread out with some shelters, a gear check, and they had a nice meal afterward for the runners. If you are bringing kids there is a playground there and plenty of space for them to run around. Too bad there was so much rain this year! All in all I would recommend the race as a scenic, low-key marathon that is very enjoyable. I would like to run it again.
K. M. from Chicago (11/9/2015) "Scenic, Peaceful and Refreshing Trail Race" (about: 2015) 11-50 previous marathons \| 1 Des Plaines River Trail Marathon COURSE: 4 ORGANIZATION: 4 FANS: 2 This was a really beautiful trail race with very nice organization. I would definitely run this again. My only concern is that at a couple of points along the along the trail you have to run across a road...I feel volunteers need to be at these points to pause/warn the runners about possible traffic...at the very least...large signage warning the runners to stop and look both ways before crossing the road. Other than that this race is excellent. I truly enjoyed the great tasting grilled burger at the end of the race...I'll bring the cheese next year. Thanks for a great race.
B. B. from Virginia (10/21/2015) "Possibly the perfect small trail race!" (about: 2015) 11-50 previous marathons \| 1 Des Plaines River Trail Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 3 If you are a fan of small races or are thinking about trying a trail race, DO THIS ONE. Every step of this course is gorgeous, the surface is flat and smooth, and the organization is fantastic. The few spectators and aid station crews are terrific and cheer for everyone. The weather for 2015 was perfect sunny and dry with a high around 50. Most of the race is in a forest; parts go through meadows. (We ran through a wedding party photo shoot on one of the bridges that's how pretty it is.) The race directors are extremely responsive to questions. There are three races together: a 50-mile, a marathon and a half. A staggered start means you rarely see people outside your own race unless you are among the very fastest or slowest. (I did the 50-mile, but the courses are all the same you just turn around sooner for the others.) Aid stations have 'real food' for the ultra folks but also plenty of gels, Gatorade and water. And the location is great - just outside Chicago, so it's easily accessible and there's plenty to do in the area afterward. I realize I'm gushing but this was one of my best running experiences ever, and I've been running a long time. The one tiny negative is that the little crushed rocks do get into your shoes, as other people have mentioned. I didn't think it was a big enough deal to bother with gaiters, though.
P. S. from Ontario, CA (5/26/2015) "Breathtaking!" (about: 2014) 50+ previous marathons \| 1 Des Plaines River Trail Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 4 FANS: 3 Living in Southern California, I never get to experience Fall! Words cannot describe how drop-dead gorgeous this race was! Every few steps, I encountered a new hue, first a yellow forest, then a red one, then an orange one, then a mixed color paradise - just incredible. The pictures I took are my cover photos on all my sites. Because I am slow, I was alone in the beauty most of the time, but I was perfectly content with communing with the birds and trees! There was one tricky water filled section that we had to traverse both up and back. I climbed rocks around it the first time and then scaled a fence on the return. No way I would plod through several inches of water, but many runners did. The race finish was special. There were little fire pots you could sit around and eat the luscious post-race hamburgers. They were awesome, as were the directors, the volunteers, everything! There were hardly any spectators, but I came to run a fall race in the forest and what I got was way more than what I hoped for!
J. M. from Carol Stream, IL (10/20/2014) "loved this race!" (about: 2014) 3 previous marathons \| 1 Des Plaines River Trail Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 2 Amazing scenery, crazy good refreshments at aid stations - who knew eating real food instead of Gu could make a marathon so much fun? Very well marked and post-race meal was welcome! Very few spectators due to the size and location of the race, but those that were there were great. Aid stations volunteers were super positive and friendly!
M. O. from Mt Prospect (11/16/2013) "Beautiful fall run in the woods... No pressure" (about: 2013) 1 previous marathon \| 1 Des Plaines River Trail Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 5 Let me preface by stating my 5 star spectators is actually due to the lack of crowds. My family was able to easily find me at 4-5 locations along the way and cheer for just me. This is exactly as I would want it! This was a very organized and pleasant experience. The weather was perfect. Plenty of everything at the aid stations for my slow full marathon time. If you, like me, find crowds draining and enjoy a peaceful, supported run in the woods, then this is the run for you.

More Comments: [ < 1 2 > ]



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R. P. from Illinois (10/17/2019) "Easy Trail Marathon" (about: 2019) 50+ previous marathons \| 1 Des Plaines River Trail Marathon COURSE: 4 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 3 This trail run is easy because the trail is wide and flat with no problems, EXCEPT the multiple long water obstacles. The 2019 racecourse was modified to 6.55-mile loops because of major flooding, which was well managed. GREAT race support for the 50 milers, marathoners and half marathoners. I highly recommend.
A. B. from Boston area, MA (11/29/2017) "Excellent choice for IL" (about: 2017) 50+ previous marathons \| 1 Des Plaines River Trail Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 3 I participated in this marathon as a part of my 50 state marathon quest and I was really happy with my choice for Illinois. To be honest, I had originally wanted to do Chicago but once they changed to a lottery system I needed to find another choice to guarantee my 50 state finish by a certain time. I'm so glad I ended up doing this marathon. As others mentioned, the weather conditions were not ideal in 2017-torrential rain, mud, thunderstorms, etc. but I give huge kudos to the race directors for allowing the race to go on anyway. Their advice if you got nervous about the lightning was to seek shelter but they were clear that the race would not be cancelled. I really appreciated this since I was finishing the 50 states 2 weeks later and wouldn't be able to fit in another IL marathon. I ended up staying in the city of Chicago because I was there for a few days and wanted to do some city sightseeing. However, I did see how the Extended Stay was right across the street. The drive from the city was totally fine, though, and didn't take very long. Everything was easy, convenient and well-marked at the starting area. There were porta-potties as well as sheltered bathrooms. There were wave starts for both the marathon and half marathon based on pace (the 50 miler started earlier). The course was really beautiful and had the weather been better I would have been able to better appreciate the scenery. Lots of water views and lots of trees. The trail was mostly gravel though there were a lot of leaves down in certain sections. The race communication was excellent so I knew what to expect on the course in terms of aid. The aid stations were excellent with friendly volunteers who had to withstand the rain (though most had tents). There was a great variety of food and drink available (probably in part because they needed to cater to the needs of the 50 mile participants). I walked the race and it is very walker-friendly because of the 50 miler which is going on concurrently. There were a few other walkers but there were plenty of times I was by myself. However, the faster 50 milers passed me towards the end and most of them were very encouraging and friendly. The race medal had a word misspelled on it but the race directors kindly mailed us a new one. The race shirt was nice and we also got a bandana type of head covering. I really appreciated getting a burger at the finish line. There was a shelter with picnic tables where we could eat. There was also other food available. There is something special about trail races. People tend to be very friendly and easygoing. I would highly recommend this race. I would definitely go back and do the half marathon now that my marathon career is over.
M. M. from Lexington, KY (10/31/2017) "Will be doing this again!" (about: 2017) 2 previous marathons \| 1 Des Plaines River Trail Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 4 I can't say enough good things about this race! The volunteers were amazing (especially considering that it was raining for most of the day), the race was well organized and stayed on time, the scenery was beautiful and the food at the aid stations and at the end was wonderful. We will definitely be doing this race again. Oh, at the people at the Extended Stay across the street were super-friendly and helpful. We will be staying there next year as well.
R. V. from California (10/16/2017) "Awesome" (about: 2017) 50+ previous marathons \| 1 Des Plaines River Trail Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 4 Super organization and logistics. Couldn't have been much easier or better organized. Race morning packet pick up was a breeze. Pre-race they had everything you need - changing tent, gear storage, coffee, snacks etc. More than enough porta potties. Races went off right on time. I can't say enough good things about the volunteers who endured the downpours, mud and soggy conditions. The aid stations were the best I've ever seen, well stocked, great volunteers filling water bottles, passing out food & drinks. Without exception they made us feel welcomed and made sure we had everything we wanted (loved the BP&Js). Nice course through scenic woods. Great job with the course markings. we had soggy conditions and heavy rain, but still a great course and kept things interesting. The Extended Stay America was literally across the street from the park entrance making things easy. They were super nice! At check in when they found out I was running they gave me a lower rate than I had already booked (who does that?) They even let me back in to my room after the race so I could clean up and dry off. Absolutely worth doing this race.
J. N. from Illinois (10/15/2017) "A scenic, enjoyable marathon" (about: 2017) 4-5 previous marathons \| 1 Des Plaines River Trail Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 2 This was a very nice course and well-organized. I ran it in 2017 and we were presented with a challenge in that it rained most of the day. The trail was pretty soggy and it wasn't the most pleasant weather by any means. But the race organizers pulled off everything quite well and were determined to let us run no matter what the elements brought. The course is very nice scenery and very flat, with just a few very minor changes in elevation here or there. The aid stations are well stocked but are about three miles apart so plan on bringing your own hydration if necessary. I do wish the garbage cans near the aid stations would have been slightly farther down the path. As it was, if you were planning on running straight through the aid stations you had to chug the water quickly and slow down so that you could throw away the cup in the garbage can before passing it. Also there were two road crossings that did not have anyone directing traffic. I managed to get through them without stopping but I saw some people who had to stop and wait for cars. It would be nice if they had someone to direct this. There were not many spectators on the course, but that's ok. I knew that going in and didn't expect many. The aid station volunteers were very enthusiastic! The start/finish area is very nice and spread out with some shelters, a gear check, and they had a nice meal afterward for the runners. If you are bringing kids there is a playground there and plenty of space for them to run around. Too bad there was so much rain this year! All in all I would recommend the race as a scenic, low-key marathon that is very enjoyable. I would like to run it again.
K. M. from Chicago (11/9/2015) "Scenic, Peaceful and Refreshing Trail Race" (about: 2015) 11-50 previous marathons \| 1 Des Plaines River Trail Marathon COURSE: 4 ORGANIZATION: 4 FANS: 2 This was a really beautiful trail race with very nice organization. I would definitely run this again. My only concern is that at a couple of points along the along the trail you have to run across a road...I feel volunteers need to be at these points to pause/warn the runners about possible traffic...at the very least...large signage warning the runners to stop and look both ways before crossing the road. Other than that this race is excellent. I truly enjoyed the great tasting grilled burger at the end of the race...I'll bring the cheese next year. Thanks for a great race.
B. B. from Virginia (10/21/2015) "Possibly the perfect small trail race!" (about: 2015) 11-50 previous marathons \| 1 Des Plaines River Trail Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 3 If you are a fan of small races or are thinking about trying a trail race, DO THIS ONE. Every step of this course is gorgeous, the surface is flat and smooth, and the organization is fantastic. The few spectators and aid station crews are terrific and cheer for everyone. The weather for 2015 was perfect sunny and dry with a high around 50. Most of the race is in a forest; parts go through meadows. (We ran through a wedding party photo shoot on one of the bridges that's how pretty it is.) The race directors are extremely responsive to questions. There are three races together: a 50-mile, a marathon and a half. A staggered start means you rarely see people outside your own race unless you are among the very fastest or slowest. (I did the 50-mile, but the courses are all the same you just turn around sooner for the others.) Aid stations have 'real food' for the ultra folks but also plenty of gels, Gatorade and water. And the location is great - just outside Chicago, so it's easily accessible and there's plenty to do in the area afterward. I realize I'm gushing but this was one of my best running experiences ever, and I've been running a long time. The one tiny negative is that the little crushed rocks do get into your shoes, as other people have mentioned. I didn't think it was a big enough deal to bother with gaiters, though.
P. S. from Ontario, CA (5/26/2015) "Breathtaking!" (about: 2014) 50+ previous marathons \| 1 Des Plaines River Trail Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 4 FANS: 3 Living in Southern California, I never get to experience Fall! Words cannot describe how drop-dead gorgeous this race was! Every few steps, I encountered a new hue, first a yellow forest, then a red one, then an orange one, then a mixed color paradise - just incredible. The pictures I took are my cover photos on all my sites. Because I am slow, I was alone in the beauty most of the time, but I was perfectly content with communing with the birds and trees! There was one tricky water filled section that we had to traverse both up and back. I climbed rocks around it the first time and then scaled a fence on the return. No way I would plod through several inches of water, but many runners did. The race finish was special. There were little fire pots you could sit around and eat the luscious post-race hamburgers. They were awesome, as were the directors, the volunteers, everything! There were hardly any spectators, but I came to run a fall race in the forest and what I got was way more than what I hoped for!
J. M. from Carol Stream, IL (10/20/2014) "loved this race!" (about: 2014) 3 previous marathons \| 1 Des Plaines River Trail Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 2 Amazing scenery, crazy good refreshments at aid stations - who knew eating real food instead of Gu could make a marathon so much fun? Very well marked and post-race meal was welcome! Very few spectators due to the size and location of the race, but those that were there were great. Aid stations volunteers were super positive and friendly!
M. O. from Mt Prospect (11/16/2013) "Beautiful fall run in the woods... No pressure" (about: 2013) 1 previous marathon \| 1 Des Plaines River Trail Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 5 Let me preface by stating my 5 star spectators is actually due to the lack of crowds. My family was able to easily find me at 4-5 locations along the way and cheer for just me. This is exactly as I would want it! This was a very organized and pleasant experience. The weather was perfect. Plenty of everything at the aid stations for my slow full marathon time. If you, like me, find crowds draining and enjoy a peaceful, supported run in the woods, then this is the run for you.

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Marathon Details - Des Plaines River Trail Marathon