40/50 Mile Challenge - Busse Woods (August 15, '26)
Course Description:
Ned Brown Forest Preserve | Busse Woods Loop Trail
The course at Busse Woods Loop Trail within Ned Brown Forest Preserve features a scenic and highly runnable trail system that winds through mature woodlands, open meadows, peaceful lakeside sections, and shaded forest canopy. Runners will complete a clearly marked 3.1-mile (5K) loop, returning each lap to the same centralized start/finish area and fully stocked aid station.
The trail surface is primarily smooth crushed limestone and packed gravel with occasional paved connector sections, creating fast and reliable footing in nearly all conditions. The terrain is mostly flat and non-technical, making the course approachable for first-time trail runners while still offering an ideal environment for experienced endurance athletes looking to accumulate distance efficiently over multiple loops.
Surrounded by scenic lakes, wildlife, and forest preserve views just outside the Chicago metro area, Busse Woods provides a unique balance of natural beauty and accessibility. The loop-based format allows runners to manage pacing, nutrition, and recovery easily while deciding how far they want to go—whether that’s one loop, a first trail race, a first ultra, or an all-day endurance effort. The combination of smooth terrain, centralized support, and a welcoming atmosphere makes Busse Woods Loop Trail an outstanding venue for runners of all experience levels.
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.
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.
Location: Busse Woods Loop Trail
Ned Brown Forest Preserve
E. Higgins Rd & Arlington Hts Rd
Elk Grove, IL 60007
Distances Offered: 40 Mile, 50 Mile
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.
