Washington Park Trail Trek

Washington Park Trail Trek takes place in Springfield, Illinois, on October 24, 2026, with the 5K run starting at 8 a.m. The route follows a marked course through the wooded trails of Washington Park, and it starts and finishes at a landmark spot in the park, tying the event to its historic roots.

Entry supports the restoration of the historic summer kitchen at the Leland farm, every participant receives a commemorative shirt, and awards go to the leading finishers in the various age groups. Because the surface is trail rather than road, expect a time slower than your pavement 5K and run by feel instead of by watch. Adding one easy off-road run a week in the month beforehand will get your ankles used to uneven ground.