Loud Thunder 50

APR
18
2026
Read all about the Loud Thunder 50 on 18 Apr 2026 in Illinois City.
Sat 18 Apr 2026
50 miles 50 kilometers Half Marathon

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Event overview

Loud Thunder 50 is a trail race day on April 18, 2026 at Loud Thunder Forest Preserve, Illinois City, IL. The start/finish area is at the Horse Corral Campground (park address: 19408 Loud Thunder Rd). The event offers the following distances:

  • 50 Miler
  • 50K
  • 1/2 Marathon

Online registration is used; there is no paper or race-morning registration. The event is organized as a low-capacity trail race with custom finisher awards, post-race food and drink, and a guaranteed donation to the park. The race policy lists no refunds or bib transfers. Deferral credits are available with deadlines of February 18 (100%) and March 18 (50%).

Course and logistics

The course is based on a single full loop of about 13.3 miles. The 50 Miler runs the full loop three times plus a shortened fourth loop; the 50K runs the full loop twice plus a shortened loop; the half marathon runs a single loop. Terrain is approximately 95% trail, including dirt single and double track, short grass and crushed gravel sections, and minimal pavement. Approximate elevation gain is ~6600 ft for the 50 Miler, ~4000 ft for the 50K, and ~1900 ft for the half marathon.

Two fully stocked aid stations are on course; both allow drop bags and crew access. The longest distance between aid stations is under 5 miles. Pacers are allowed only for the 50 Miler and only for the final ~18 miles. Race rules require no cutting, leave no trace practices, and that runners remain on their registered distance. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.

50 mi
50 Miler
50 km
50k
Half Marathon
1/2 Marathon

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