Starved Rock Country Marathon

Back for a 12th year, the 2026 Starved Rock Country Marathon and Half Marathon, 5K and now 10K  have become the "must do" events of the running community in central Illinois. The Marathon course will again encompass the scenery of the Illinois River, the neighborhoods of Ottawa, and the rolling landscapes in and around Starved Rock State Park. Runners will be inspired by the scenery of rolling country hills and natural rock formations tucked into heavily wooded areas created by the Illinois River thousands of years ago. This record eligible marathon course has 16 aide stations with Gatorade at each station and we plan to stock one station for the half and two for the marathon with GU. Runners participating in the Half Marathon, which starts in the heart of Starved Rock State Park, will experience the neighborhoods of Ottawa in addition to wooded scenery and sites along the Illinois River. The Half Marathon is a flat, fast course making for a nice run through country and city alike. Each runner will receive a participant shirt and finishers receive a race specific medal which will be the fifth in the series.

Please note that in 2026, the course will only remain open 6 hours, which is different than the 6.5 hours of the past. We understand this change might affect some; however, it is necessary to get roads back open in a safe timeline. 

The Run Starved Rock 5K  will return as well. This event will start and end at the same lines as the marathon, and follow part of the marathon route before heading back to Ottawa for a finish along the river.  The event is a great addition for those who want to participate in the events of the day while their loved one or friend is running another race.  A portion of this event will benefit local charities and events promoting running and physical activity.  

New in 2026, the 10K will also be an outback course along even more scenic portion of Rt 71 literally on the banks of the Illinois River.  

The packet pickup will be held from 1pm - 8PM on Friday May 8th, Ottawa YMCA, 411 Canal St, Ottawa, IL. Runners will receive their bibs (required for race participation), participant shirt, as well as a swag bag filled with local and regional offers and race information.  RC Outfitters will also be there with shoes and gear.