13 walking events in Cook County, Illinois

From big races to Saturday morning group runs—find walking events and connect with the local endurance sports community.

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The Muddy Waters 5k: A Spirits Run at Fat Tommy’s [runsignup.com]
Sat, Mar 28, 2026 at 10:00 AM

Description

Get ready for a blues‑soaked adventure in Crestwood! The Muddy Miles: A Spirits Run at Fat Tommy’s brings the heart of Chicago blues to a fast, fun, and slightly gritty 5K experience inspired by...

Get ready for a blues‑soaked adventure in Crestwood! The Muddy Miles: A Spirits Run at Fat Tommy’s brings the heart of Chicago blues to a fast, fun, and slightly gritty 5K experience inspired by Muddy Waters’ legacy and the historic Restvale Cemetery.

This is a Spirits Run event — which means you’re getting more than a race. You’re getting a story, a route with character, and a finish‑line celebration that feels like a neighborhood party.

What to Expect

A runner‑friendly 5K route starting and finishing at Fat Tommy’s, Crestwood’s iconic local spot.

A blues‑themed adventure with nods to Muddy Waters and the musicians who shaped American music.

A cemetery‑turnaround moment that’s respectful, atmospheric, and signature Spirits Run style.

Checkpoints with light, optional tasks to keep the run playful and memorable.

A mini scavenger challenge woven into the course for extra fun.

Post‑Race Celebration

All registered participants receive food included with registration, served by Fat Tommy’s. Spectators and non‑participants can purchase food on‑site from Fat Tommy’s.

Stick around after you cross the finish line — we’ll have music, photos, and a lively community atmosphere.

Swag & Goodies

Custom race bib

Spirits Run collectible stamp for your Illinois Adventure Series passport

Finisher Woodie Medal for all Participants

Collectors Drink Cup

Add‑on merch available at event

Who Can Join

Walkers, runners, strollers, and all paces are welcome. This is a community‑first event with a fun, inclusive vibe.

A Spirits Run Adventure

Every Spirits Run event is built to celebrate local history, local venues, and the stories that make each Illinois town unique. Muddy Miles honors Crestwood’s blues heritage while delivering a fun, approachable 5K for all.

5k Run Walk
4901 Cal Sag Road, Cook County, Illinois, 60418, United States
OpenStreetMap Google Maps
Avoca School District 37 Family Fun Run/Walk *Please note date change* [runsignup.com]
Sun, Apr 26, 2026 at 8:00 AM

Description

Lace up your running shoes and support Avoca District 37, Marie Murphy class of 2026!

This fun run and walk will support 8th grade activities, and the legacy gift left for generations of Avoca D37...

Lace up your running shoes and support Avoca District 37, Marie Murphy class of 2026!

This fun run and walk will support 8th grade activities, and the legacy gift left for generations of Avoca D37 students to come. Additional proceeds will also be donated to charity.

Whether you run, walk, or jog, it’s all about fun, fitness, and community.

📅 Date: April 26, 2026

Start Time: 8:00 am

📍 Location: Community Playfields track

3 Miles Fun Run Run Walk
702 Locust Road, Cook County, Illinois, 60091, United States
OpenStreetMap Google Maps
Insight Y.O.B Walk-A-Thon 2026 [insightyob.org] [Register at runsignup.com]
Sat, May 02, 2026 at 9:00 AM

Description

Join us for our annual 5K Walk-A-Thon in support of adolescent physical and mental wellness. This event helps raise funds for our 4-week summer camp serving students in 3rd through 8th grade. More...

Join us for our annual 5K Walk-A-Thon in support of adolescent physical and mental wellness. This event helps raise funds for our 4-week summer camp serving students in 3rd through 8th grade. More than a summer program, this camp is designed to be a safe, active, and encouraging space for youth during the summer months.

Led by a longtime Maywood District 89 educator with more than 30 years of service, this initiative is rooted in the belief that adolescents need safe spaces, positive structure, and opportunities to stay active for their overall health and well-being.

5k Run Walk
5900 Electric Ave, Cook County, Illinois, 60163, United States
OpenStreetMap Google Maps
Palos Park Doggie Dash [palospark.org] [Register at raceroster.com]
Sat, May 16, 2026 at 9:00 AM

Description

4th Annual

Palos Park Doggie Dash

Saturday, May 16, 2026

5K & 1-Mile Run/Walk

Palos Park Recreation Center

8901 W. 123rd Street

Palos Park, IL

You must be registered by 5/1/2026 to be guaranteed your race shirt/size and finisher medal.

5k Run Walk
Palos Park Recreation Center, 8901 West 123rd Street, Cook County, Illinois, 60464, United States
OpenStreetMap Google Maps
2026 Willard 5k Fun Run [runsignup.com]
Sun, May 17, 2026 at 8:15 AM
Description
The Willard PTO is excited to once again host its annual 5K fun run! This event is open to runners and walkers of all ages and abilities. Join us for some friendly competition or just a leisurely...
The Willard PTO is excited to once again host its annual 5K fun run! This event is open to runners and walkers of all ages and abilities. Join us for some friendly competition or just a leisurely stroll to start the day!

Race Details
- 5K - The 5k features a 2-loop course, beginning and ending near the Willard playground on Franklin Street; the race begins at 8:30am
- Kids Run - Before the main event, our youngest runners (1st grade and younger) can try our Mini Loop, a 1/4ish mile loop around Constitution Park (see map)
Registration Information

The cost of registration is $20/person (plus site fees) and includes a race bib, t-shirt, and finishers medal.

Registration for the 5k includes the kids mini-loop registration. You do not need to separately register for each event - just show up to one or both! If you do not wish to receive a race shirt, please select "No Shirt" when selecting your t-shirt size. The t-shirt portion of your entry fee will be donated to the PTO; the perfect option if you don’t want another race t-shirt in your closet!

T-shirts and race bibs will be available for pickup at Willard on Thursday 5/14 and Friday 5/15, as well as the morning of the race.
5k Fun Run Run Walk
1250 Ashland Ave, Cook County, Illinois, 60305, United States
OpenStreetMap Google Maps

Hoffman Estates Stars & Stripes Half Marathon, 10K & 5K [allcommunityevents.com] [Register at runsignup.com]
Sat, Jun 27, 2026 at 7:30 AM

Description

Hoffman Estates Stars & Stripes Half Marathon, 10K & 5K Run/Walk

Hoffman Estates, IL - 06/27/2026

Use #Stars&StripesRun when sharing your photos from the event. Finish with the American Flag,...

Hoffman Estates Stars & Stripes Half Marathon, 10K & 5K Run/Walk

Hoffman Estates, IL - 06/27/2026

Use #Stars&StripesRun when sharing your photos from the event. Finish with the American Flag, finisher medals & finish line ice cream and bomb pops!

Event times, dates, location and all other details are subject to change prior to the event. All official information is on the event's website AllCommunityEvents.com.

5k 10k 13.1 Miles Half Marathon Run Walk
2046 Lakewood Blvd, Cook County, Illinois, 60192, United States
OpenStreetMap Google Maps
The Universal Sole Summer Trail Challenge [universalsole.com] [Register at runsignup.com]
Sat, Jun 27, 2026 at 9:00 AM

Description

The Universal Sole Summer Trail Challenge

THREE DISTANCES to Choose!

3 Miles-> 6->Miles-> 9 Miles

June 27, 2026 @ 9AM

Trail running has always been in our USOLE DNA! We were the first running store...

The Universal Sole Summer Trail Challenge

THREE DISTANCES to Choose!

3 Miles-> 6->Miles-> 9 Miles

June 27, 2026 @ 9AM

Trail running has always been in our USOLE DNA! We were the first running store in Chicago to bring trail racing to the Chicago running community. These trail races are great courses for folks wanting to get off the roads and enjoy some of our beautiful trails, but not have to be an expert trail runner to get to the finish. Our trail races are very laid back and great fun for the entire family, making it fun & easy for all! The USOLE Trail Challenge is great for people of all ages and all abilities looking to change up the running routine and get “off” the roads!

Trail Race Location:

We will be headed to Wolf Road Woods, part of the Palos Trail System to tackle our classic USOLE 3 mile course! This course will have a great mix of double & single track along with undulating terrain in the beautiful Wolf Road Woods! It may have a small hill or two to climb as well, but fun will always be had! You have three options to choose...One loop, Two loops or Three loops! You choose your distance! USOLE Trail Challenge races are a great way to see the trails, get a trail run in and enjoy camaraderie with your trail running friends!

Race Details:USOLE Summer Trail Challenge Registration Pricing:

Opening Price until February 28 - $40.00

March 1 - April 30 - $45.00

May 1 - May 31 - $50.00

June 1 - Race Day - $55.00

No exchanges or refunds

The Goods:

Everyone receives a USOLE Trail Challenge premium giveaway

Brews for all post race!

USOLE camaraderie and fun as always!

Courses will be trail & off road with crushed limestone, dirt, rocks, & roots...and maybe some mud. Fun is the name of the game!

Races will begin promptly @ 9:00am. Race day pickup & registration will begin @ 8:00am.

Weather Issues: In the case of inclement weather, the only time we will delay a race or consider any action is in the presence of lightening. All other weather (rain, snow, tons of snow, tons of rain, etc) we will run the race. After all, this is trail running and some inclement weather makes it that much more fun!

Water will be at the Start/finish line. Due to Cook County Forest Preserve regulations, we are not allowed to have any aid station in the trails. Runners running the 6 or 9 mile will have access to water before heading out back out on the second & third three mile loops. It is recommended to carry a hand held bottle or a hydration belt if you need on-course hydration. Bottles can be filled at start/finish line as well as at the split aid station.

-Granola Bars & bananas will be at the finish.

-Race day gear check will be at the Universal Sole Tents

-Parking Info: Plenty of parking in the forest preserve parking lots!

Directions to race sites (see map and address below):

(Wolf Road Woods) - Coming from the north, take I-55 to Exit 279A, southbound La Grange Road. Drive south for roughly 2 miles and exit south onto Archer Avenue.

Awards:

-Overall Male & Female will receive custom tile awards for 9 mile race.

-Full Age Group Awards for the 9 MILE TRAIL RACE ONLY, Top three in each age group: 0-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, 70-79, 80+

-The 3 & 6 Mile will have age group winner awards only.

-Post race raffle with great prizes from Universal Sole & all of our sponsors to be held at our post race party on-site!

-Packet Pick-up & Race Day Registration:All packets/numbers can be picked race morning on-site @ Wolf Road Woods (Palos) from 8:00am until 8:45am @ The USOLE Tents.

If you would like to register for the race, you may do so on-site at the USOLE Tents from 8am - 8:45am race morning. We highly recommend registering pre-race, but can take walk-ups as well.

Post Race Brews & Fun!

Once the races are over, craft brews for everyone (along with an N.A. alternative as well)! We will have some other goodies for folks as well to enjoy, but let's run, have some fun and enjoy some beer! Once again we will have some brews from our sponsors, Bitter Pops & Goose Island Beer Company for all folks to enjoy and sip while celebrating your accomplishment! Come on out, enjoy some great summer trail running, great craft brews and tons of camaraderie!

BRING OLD RUNNING SHOES OUT TO THE RACE TO RECYCLE!

Reduce Waste Chicago is a nonprofit organization that empowers residents to address climate change through waste reduction on a personal, producer, and policy level. They host Reuse & Recycling Pop-Up events across the city, where they collect a selection of items that can be reused, repurposed, or are difficult to recycle. Reduce Waste Chicago will be out at USOLE races accepting running shoes for recycling (athletic shoes only; please no packaging, bags, boxes, etc.) For more information, click here.

Want To Volunteer? Please email: [email protected]

Please note: No refunds or exchanges for this event

3 Miles 6 Miles 9 Miles Cycling Run Walk
9600 Wolf Road, Cook County, Illinois, 60480, United States
OpenStreetMap Google Maps
Summer Trail Classic [dickpondathletics.com] [Register at raceroster.com]
Sun, Aug 23, 2026 at 7:30 AM

Description

Dick Pond Athletics

2026 Summer Trail Classic

Approx 4M * 9.5M * 13M

August 23, 2026

7:30 Start

The Summer Trail Classic is the third of four events of the 2026 Dick Pond Athletics Darn Tough Trail...

Dick Pond Athletics

2026 Summer Trail Classic

Approx 4M * 9.5M * 13M

August 23, 2026

7:30 Start

The Summer Trail Classic is the third of four events of the 2026 Dick Pond Athletics Darn Tough Trail Race Series.

After galloping over the wide crushed limestone lanes at Chauncey’s in April and overcoming the hills on the wide grass/dirt pathways of Hickory Knolls in June, we are now venturing onto the twisting and turning single-track trails of Paul Douglas Forest Preserve in Hoffman Estates.

Choose from three different distances – approximate 4 miles / 9.5 miles / 13 miles – for a true trail running experience!

Date: August 23, 2026

Start Time: 7:30am (all distances)

Distances:

Approximate 4 miles / 9.5 miles / 13 miles

Walking-only participants are only allowed in the 4 mile distance, and support on all three courses will be removed at 12:00 Noon.

Location: Paul Douglas Forest Preserve, Central Avenue (just west of Roselle Rd, and just east of Barrington Rd), Hoffman Estates

Sponsors: Dick Pond Athletics, Mount to Coast and Darn Tough

Beneficiary: Chicago Area Mountain Bikers (CAMBr)

CAMBr is the Chicago Area Mountain Bikers, a volunteer organization of hundreds of riders who work to ensure that mountain bikers have diverse and challenging local opportunities to enjoy their sport. Our members have donated thousands of work hours to build and improve area trails.

The mission of the Chicago Area Mountain Bikers is to educate bicyclists, promote responsible trail use, prevent trail closings, maintain and build multi-use natural surface singletrack and freeride cycling opportunities in the Chicago area. CAMBr seeks to promote trail and freeride bicycling through stewardship, environmental and social responsibility, education, and a spirit of cooperation among all trail users, the conservation community, and governing bodies.

Please visit cambr.org if you are interested in finding out how you can get involved with CAMBr’s trail maintenance activities and/or cycling events.

Sponsored by

IMPORTANT: The Forest Preserve has very strict regulations in place regarding the trail use at Paul Douglas – if the trails are WET, the trails are CLOSED. If there is significant rain in the days immediately before race day and the Forest Preserve office deems the trails are not usable, we will shift the race to the asphalt bike path at the preserve. You will receive an email from us no later than Friday evening, August 21, notifying you of the change to the bike path with details about the course and race distances.

Cycling Run Walk
Paul Douglas Preserve, Cook County, Illinois, 60195, United States
OpenStreetMap Google Maps
9/11 Heroes Run - Chicago, Illinois [runsignup.com]
Sat, Sep 05, 2026 at 8:00 AM

Description

The 9/11 Heroes Run 5K welcomes runners, ruckers, and walkers of all ages and fitness levels to honor the heroes of 9/11 and those who've served our nations since. We activate & unite communities and...

The 9/11 Heroes Run 5K welcomes runners, ruckers, and walkers of all ages and fitness levels to honor the heroes of 9/11 and those who've served our nations since. We activate & unite communities and empower local veterans, active duty, first responders, and families of the fallen.

TMF is proud to partner with GORUCK again with rucking divisions at every run. Rucking is a sport based on special forces training in which participants walk or run while carrying weighted rucksacks. All participants registered for the GORUCK division will earn this year's exclusive TMF GORUCK patch. Learn more about GORUCK here.

1 Miles 5k Run Walk
West Higgins Road, Cook County, Illinois, 60010, United States
OpenStreetMap Google Maps
The Hidden Gem Half Marathon 2026 [hiddengemhalf.com] [Register at raceroster.com]
Sat, Sep 12, 2026 at 7:30 AM

Description

The Gem is BACK!

September 12, 2026

Flossmoor, IL

CARA 2025 RACE OF THE YEAR

REGISTRATION OPENS SPRING '26

Please Note: Runners must finish the race in three hours (No Walkers).

More information:

HERE

21k Half Marathon Run Walk
2800 Flossmoor Road, Cook County, Illinois, 60422, United States
OpenStreetMap Google Maps
St. Veronica 6k Run/Walk for Scholarships [runsignup.com]
Sun, Sep 20, 2026 at 9:00 AM
Description
Sunday, September 20th, 2026, 9:00 am

6K Run (3.71 miles)

2Km Walk (1.2 miles)

Vollmer Road Trails, Olympia Fields, Illinois

Join us for the annual St. Veronica 6k run for scholarships, which will...
Sunday, September 20th, 2026, 9:00 am

6K Run (3.71 miles)

2Km Walk (1.2 miles)

Vollmer Road Trails, Olympia Fields, Illinois

Join us for the annual St. Veronica 6k run for scholarships, which will take place on the 6k loop of the Cook County Forest Preserve Vollmer Grove Trail. This event is being held to support the St. Veronica Kwanzaa Ministry Scholarship program. People of all ages are welcome to participate in this family-friendly event by running or walking their way to help our ministry reach its goal. The race starts at 9:00 am and will take place on the trails at Vollmer Grove. So, if you're ready to take on the challenge, tie up your running shoes and get ready to run!
- What is included with your race entry:
- A first-class running experience
- Chip-timing for accurate results
- A totally set-up and well-marked course
- One-of-a-kind Prizes and Race Swag
- Early Bird Registration: Anyone who registers by September 18, 2026, will receive a complimentary St. Veronica 6k Run/Walk for Scholarships T-shirt.
- Race Day Registration: Feel free register between 7:30 and 8:30 a.m. on race day. $40 per participant (t-shirt not guaranteed)
Start Times: 9:00 am

Race Options:

6K Run: Timed event for competitive runners

2K Walk: Perfect for all ages and fitness levels

Packet Pickup: Will take place on race day at the start area at 8:00 am.

Course Type: Paved Trail

Stroller friendly? Yes

Dogs allowed? Yes (On a Leash)

Transportation: Parking is available at the start area. An overflow lot is available off Flossmoor Road, approximately 1 mile from the start of the event. If you park at the Flossmoor Road Lot, turn left to enter the trails. The Olympia Fields Metra station, located on the Metra Electric line, is approximately 2 Miles from the start area.

Awards: We will award medals to the top three overall finishers and the top three in the following age groups: 14 & Under, 15-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, and 70+. Awards will be presented at approximately 10:15 am.

The course time limit is 90 minutes.

CLICK ON MORE DETAILS TO SEE COURSE MAP

More Details
1.3 Miles 3.71 Miles 6k Run Trail Walk
Vollmer Road Trails, Cook County, Illinois, 60461, United States
OpenStreetMap Google Maps
4th Annual DBC Keys 2 Stability Community 5K 2026 [runsignup.com]
Sat, Oct 10, 2026 at 8:00 AM

Description

4th Annual DBC Keys 2 Stability Community 5K 2026

4th Annual DBC Keys 2 Stability Community 5K

Your donation during our 4th Annual Community 5K directly supports local families experiencing hidden...

4th Annual DBC Keys 2 Stability Community 5K 2026

4th Annual DBC Keys 2 Stability Community 5K

Your donation during our 4th Annual Community 5K directly supports local families experiencing hidden homelessness by providing:

• Hotel assistance

• Fresh food and produce

• Personal care essentials

• Household items

• Laundry support

Every gift helps us bring dignity, stability, and hope to families who are too often overlooked.

We invite community members, families, businesses, and local leaders to join us—

whether you walk, run, sponsor, or donate, your participation strengthens our mission and expands our impact.

Together, we can share the love and uplift our neighbors in need.

Go To www.dbcgiftsoflove.org to learn more.

Raising funds for book bags, school supplies, and gift cards for homeless school children in the Chicago south suburbs.

This event is for the WHOLE Family!

5k 3.2 Miles Run Walk
4162 Vollmer Rd., Cook County, Illinois, 60422, United States
OpenStreetMap Google Maps
Lincolnwood Turkey Trot: 5K, 10K, Walk, Dash [lincolnwoodil.org] [Register at runsignup.com]
Sun, Nov 22, 2026 at 8:45 AM

Description

Be part of the tradition.

The annual Lincolnwood Turkey Trot is a chip-timed, USATF certified 5K and 10K race. This flat and fast course weaves through scenic Lincolnwood and features races for all ages and abilities, including a 5K Fitness Walk and Kid's Drumstick Dash (ages six and younger). Everyone that crosses the Finish Line will receive a finisher medal!

5k 10k Run Walk
6915 Kostner Avenue, Cook County, Illinois, 60712, United States
OpenStreetMap Google Maps

Local Clubs & Organizations

Homewood Flossmoor Swim Club Club

[homewoodflossmoorswim.org] [usaswimming.org]
USA Swimming Club. 42 members.

Swim

Contact: [email protected]
999 Kedzie Ave, Cook County, Illinois, 60422-2248, United States
OpenStreetMap Google Maps
Phone: +1 708-826-8401
Schaumburg Pk Dist Barracudas Club

[parkfun.com] [usaswimming.org]
USA Swimming Club. 72 members.

Swim

Contact: [email protected]
700 E Cougar Trl, Cook County, Illinois, 60169-3659, United States
OpenStreetMap Google Maps
Phone: +1 847-985-2143

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