Event Description

Kick off your 2026 trail season with a frosty 5K that’s anything but ordinary. The Fox Valley Winter Challenge Trail Series is back—and we're starting strong at the scenic (and occasionally snow-dusted) Dick Young Forest Preserve in Batavia. Expect winding trails, open prairie views, and that signature winter chill to keep you on your toes.

This is the first race in our three-part Winter Challenge series, which also includes an 8K and 10K at different preserves across the Fox Valley. You can run just the 5K or go all in with the Trail Series Combo to earn all three finisher medals—designed to connect into one epic display—and unlock exclusive series swag.

Perfect for both seasoned trail runners and those just starting to dip their toes into winter racing, this 5K offers a fast, fun, and slightly unpredictable ride through nature’s winter playground. The terrain is a mix of grass, dirt, and crushed limestone, with the added twist of whatever winter throws our way—snow, slush, mud, or crisp dry trails.

Everyone who crosses the finish line walks away with a unique medal and custom winter swag. But more importantly, you’ll earn bragging rights for starting your year off in the most badass way possible.

Lace up, layer up, and we’ll see you out there.

You can sign up 2 or 3 races from any of the race websites, however here are their specific addresses:

5K: https://runsignup.com/Race/IL/Batavia/FoxValleyWinterChallengeTrailSeries1

8K: https://runsignup.com/Race/IL/Aurora/FoxValleyWinterChallengeTrailSeries2

10K: https://runsignup.com/Race/IL/StCharles/FoxValleyWinterChallengeTrailSeries3