Immerse yourself in the rugged beauty and serene atmosphere of northern Illinois with the 26th edition of the Potawatomi Trail Races. This iconic ultra-distance running event offers runners an unforgettable journey through diverse landscapes, from rolling hills to pristine prairies. The race features a challenging yet scenic single-track dirt course that winds its way over endless rolling terrain and crosses several creeks, adding unexpected challenges along the 10-mile loop. Each lap gains you 1500 feet in elevation, testing your endurance as you traverse through lush vegetation teeming with wildlife such as deer, turkeys, birds, and owls. Aid stations are strategically placed every five miles to ensure runners stay hydrated and well-fed throughout their journey. For those aiming for a faster pace or concerned about time cutoffs, early start options on Thursday noon, Friday morning at 6 AM and noon, and Saturday morning at 6 AM provide flexibility. However, these starts do not qualify participants for podium awards but still grant them finisher recognition. All runners will receive a commemorative shirt upon registration, while those who complete the 50-, 100-, 150-, or 200-mile distances earn additional accolades: finishers medals and buckles. Completing either the 150- or 200-mile distance now earns you a prestigious jacket to showcase your achievement. Competitors can set up camp at no extra cost starting Thursday morning, enjoying primitive tent camping in a field near the race route. Campfire gatherings bring runners together for camaraderie and rest between loops. Charging stations are available at main aid stops for essential gear upkeep. To ensure fair competition and safety, all course records must be verified through GPS tracking devices such as Garmin or Strava. Detailed information about rules, deferral policies, and other logistical details can be found on the Potawatomi Trail Races Facebook page. Join a community of dedicated runners committed to pushing their limits while enjoying one of Illinois' most scenic trails under starlit skies and sunny days alike.
Races Offered
200 Miler
Apr 08, 2027
straighten
Distance —
321.9K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
12:00
sell
$450.00
150 Miler
Apr 09, 2027
straighten
Distance —
241.4K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
06:00
sell
$375.00
50 Miler
Apr 09, 2027
straighten
Distance —
80.5K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
06:00
sell
$140.00
100 Miler
Apr 10, 2027
straighten
Distance —
160.9K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
06:00
sell
$300.00
10 Miler
Apr 10, 2027
straighten
Distance —
16.1K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
08:00
sell
$50.00
30 Miler
Apr 10, 2027
straighten
Distance —
48.3K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
18:00
sell
$85.00
Weather History
These values represent the 3-year monthly averages for April in Pekin.
thermostatTemperature
6.5° / 17.8°
wb_sunnyFeels like
2.3° / 14.0°
light_mode
Avg sunshine hours
9h 4m
water_drop
Avg rainfall
2.9 mm
ac_unit
Avg snowfall
—
air
Avg wind speed
15.2 km/h (Gentle breeze)
opacity
Sweat loss rate
Low
terrain
Course conditions
Firm and slightly soft
sunny
Max UV Index
Moderate (5.0)
humidity_mid
Humidity
63.3%
wb_twilight
Sunrise
06:18
nightlight
Sunset
19:37
About Pekin
Learn more about the host city, Pekin.
Pekin is located in, and is the county seat of, Tazewell County, Illinois, United States. It is located along the Illinois River in Central Illinois. The population was 31,731 at the 2020 census. Pekin is the largest city in Tazewell County and the second-most populous city in the Peoria metropolitan area. A small portion of the city limits extend into Peoria County.
