40/50 Mile Challenge - Deer Grove East (Aug 8, 2026)
Location: Deer Grove East
1599 Pepper Tree Dr
Palatine, IL 60067
Distances Offered: 40 Mile, 50 Mile
Deer Grove East Forest Preserve – Palatine, IL
The course at Deer Grove East Forest Preserve features a scenic and highly runnable trail system winding through restored prairie, open wetlands, oak savannas, and shaded woodland corridors. Runners will complete a clearly marked loop that returns each lap to the same centralized start/finish area and fully stocked aid station, making pacing, fueling, and race strategy simple and efficient.
The terrain is primarily flat to gently rolling, with a mix of paved and natural-surface trails that provide excellent footing and a smooth running experience. The open landscape offers expansive views across prairie and wetland habitats, while wooded sections provide periodic shade and a welcome change of scenery throughout each loop.
Deer Grove East is part of one of the oldest and most ecologically significant forest preserves in the region. The preserve's combination of restored grasslands, wetlands, savannas, and abundant wildlife creates an immersive natural setting that feels far removed from the surrounding suburbs. Runners may encounter deer, native birds, and seasonal wildflowers while making their way around the course.
The loop-based format makes Deer Grove East an ideal venue for athletes of all experience levels—from first-time trail runners and those pursuing a new distance milestone to experienced endurance athletes seeking longer efforts. With easy access to aid, crew support, and personal gear throughout the event, runners can focus on one thing: seeing how far they can go.
Your Endurance. No Limits. One More Loop.
Support & Logistics
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Runners may access personal supplies at their staging area each loop
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Crew access permitted in designated areas
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Pacers allowed per event rules (location-specific and time-based)
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Medical and race staff on site throughout the event
This setup allows runners to adapt strategy on the fly—fueling, gear changes, and rest without leaving the course.
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 experience—simplified logistics, consistent footing, and constant access to aid and support.
Event Format
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Distances: 40 Miles or 50 Miles
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Loop Length: 3.1 miles (5K)
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Course Type: Continuous loop trail race
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Time Limit: 12 hours
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Start/Finish: Same location each loop
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Aid Station: Fully stocked at every lap
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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:
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Runners attempting their first ultra distance
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Athletes stepping up from a marathon or 50K
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Experienced ultrarunners seeking a fast, efficient course
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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.
Running Alongside The Next Loop, The 40/50 Mile Challenge runs simultaneously with The Next Loop Endurance Series on the same course.
While Next Loop participants run on the hour, 40/50 Mile Challenge runners race continuously and are scored separately.
Each event has its own competitive field, results, and rules.This creates an energetic race environment while preserving the integrity of both formats.
Ready to Take on the Challenge?
Registration is limited to ensure course quality and runner support.