Discover the unique, sandy challenge of a midwestern pine forest at the 16th annual Cactus Classic Trail Races on March 7, 2026. This beloved Illinois event, held in the appropriately named Sand Ridge State Forest, offers a marathon, half marathon, and 10K on trails composed of loose, beach-like soil that provides a distinctive and demanding running experience. The courses weave through flat, runnable sections and rolling hills under a canopy of pine trees, with the added novelty of wild cacti scattered throughout the landscape—a rare sight in the Midwest. Starting and finishing at the Oak Campground, the race fosters a low-key, community-focused atmosphere perfect for both seasoned trail veterans and those looking to try something different underfoot.
Celebrating a decade and a half of tradition, the Cactus Classic has perfected the balance of a challenging yet enjoyable early-season test, with straightforward race-day logistics including on-site packet pickup and ample parking. To guarantee a commemorative shirt or hoodie, register by February 21st, as later entries reflect a reduced, no-swag price. This is the perfect race for runners seeking to escape the pavement and experience a truly unique terrain that feels like a coastal getaway, all within the heart of Illinois. Lace up for a day of sandy strides, pine-scented air, and a celebration of a longstanding local trail running tradition.
Mar 07, 2026
Distance — 10K
Type — Running
08:00
$60.00
Mar 07, 2026
Distance — 21.1K
Type — Running
08:00
$80.00
Mar 07, 2026
Distance — 42.2K
Type — Running
08:00
$100.00
These values represent the 3-year monthly averages for March in Manito.
Manito is a village in Mason County, Illinois, United States. The population was 1,552 at the 2020 census, down from 1,642 in 2010.
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