Flat and fast 100 miles along Illinois' longest trail, from the Rock River to the Mississippi.
The 100-mile course follows the historic Hennepin Canal State Trail on a lollipop route from Sinnissippi Park in Sterling to the finish in Colona, near the Mississippi River. Nearly flat throughout on crushed limestone, packed dirt, and chip-and-seal surfaces, the course traverses an old canal towpath across locks and lift bridges through farmland and prairie towns of northwest Illinois. Runners share the trail with 50-milers before completing an out-and-back on the Feeder Canal before heading west to Colona. A Western States 100 qualifier.
Sterling, IL, United StatesOctober 03, 2026
| Location | Mile | Elevation |
|---|---|---|
Start Start | 0.0 | 656 ft |
Finish Finish | 100.2 | 558 ft |
Sign in to see cutoffs, crew access, drop bags, and services for every aid station.
Camping at Lock 17 near Wyanet (50 mile finish) for 50 milers; 100 mile runners can camp at Colona Scott Family Park (3 miles from the 100 mile finish, near bus pickup to start).
Early October in northwest Illinois delivers ideal racing conditions. Daytime highs run 55–65°F (13–18°C) with overnight lows dropping to 35–45°F (2–7°C). The exposed canal towpath amplifies wind chill in the predawn hours. Per race data citing weatherspark.com, October has only a 6% chance of thunderstorms or significant rain — one of the driest months of the year. Runners should layer for cold overnight temps while being prepared to shed layers once the sun rises.
Overnight temps drop to 35-45°F (2-7°C); wind chill on the exposed open canal towpath can make it feel significantly colder
Exposed canal towpath has no windbreak for miles; wind amplifies cold especially in the predawn hours
No required gear specified
No recommended gear specified
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