2026 Crystal Lake Half Marathon & 12K

WELCOME!

We are excited to present the 7th Annual Crystal Lake Half Marathon & 12K on Sunday, September 6, 2026.

Start Times: 7:30 Half Marathon 8:00 a.m. 12K (7.44 miles)

The Half Marathon starts at Main Beach and the 12K starts just up a few yards from the half start. All finish together for the celebration at the finish line. Enjoy the sites of Crystal Lake Illinois with the start at iconic Crystal Lake Main Beach, a loop around Lippold Park, a view of the Dole Mansion, a jaunt down the Prairie Path, and finish up in downtown Crystal Lake. This point to point venue will bus runners to the START with an easy 5 minute bus ride. Inside building and beach side warm up areas are available no matter what the weather will bring. Every 1 1/2 mile are water stations. The entry fee also includes a ticket for one beer or one non-alcoholic beverage and a slice of pizza at the Smith Running Academy After Party. Age group awards for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place for the Half Marathon distance will also be given at the After Party (location TBD).

Other Important Information:

• Bathrooms are located at the start (bathrooms), Mile 5 (porta potty), Mile 11 (Prairie Path building), and Finish Line (porta potty)
• Water stations are every 1.5 miles, Gatorade is located at Miles 7.5, 9. 10.5, 12 (we cannot provide other fueling/food on course - so please plan what works best for you!)
• EMS/First Aid is available throughout the course and will be dispatched at course marshalls directions; first aid kids are available at various water stations
• Course is marked with turn arrows on the ground, course marshals directing runners

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Packet Pick-Up Information:

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Race Day Schedule:

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Kids Run This Town

Do you have an elementary aged kiddo who loves to run!? Here's their chance to run their own Half Marathon! This 4 week program challenges kids to run 12 miles over 4 weeks with a running buddy. On race day of the Crystal Lake Half Marathon, they run their 13th mile of the month and earn their Half Marathon finisher medal

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Interested in sponsoring the Crystal Lake Half Marathon? Contact Melissa at melissa.nickle@smithptplus.com or click HERE for more info.