The Old Plank Trail in Park Forest, Illinois, stakes its claim as a straightforward yet spirited running destination. This 22-mile paved trail stretches from Chicago Heights to Joliet, slicing through forest preserves, gentle wetlands, and suburban pockets. For event runners, it offers a consistent surface underfoot, modest elevation shifts (typically under 150 feet), and an environment that moves with you instead of throwing obstacles in your path.

Running here is a rhythm of movement through trees that lean toward the path as if to cheer you on. The trail banks on your willingness to engage with nature's pulse—rivers challenge your progress nearby, while rustling leaves narrate the story of each passing season. These races happen throughout the year, providing different moods to tune in to; spring’s fresh blooms, summer’s leafy canopy, fall’s vibrant colors, and winter’s crisp edges where your breath hangs in the air.

Events on the Old Plank Trail cater to various paces and goals. From 5Ks that spark your competitive edge to half marathons demanding steady stamina, there is an event for nearly all levels. The mostly flat terrain means you can focus on pacing rather than steep climbs, but it also means wind can be a factor—always prepare for that subtle opponent.

To meet this challenge, proper footwear is non-negotiable. Lightweight trail or road runners with reliable traction ensure your footing is firm on the asphalt and occasional gravel sections. Hydration stations are strategically placed during race events, but for quieter runs, carry at least 16 ounces of water or an electrolyte drink if you plan to exceed an hour. Morning or early evening races avoid the harsh midday sun, which in summer can severely sap energy.

Beyond the physical, the trail introduces a connection where the ordinary turns active: birds punctuate the quiet, squirrels dart with an almost competitive spirit, and the changing seasons lend unmistakable personalities. Meeting this environment requires respect—the trail is fiercely itself and demands a runner’s focus, respect, and readiness.

If you’re preparing for an event, pacing your training with tempo runs and intervals will pay off far more than simply racking up endless mileage. Attention to nutrition, rest, and gear—like weather-appropriate layers and GPS watches—turns your race experience into one that balances thrill with discipline.

Old Plank Trail races are more than timed runs; they are invitations to engage with an accessible stretch of Midwestern terrain that rewards your preparation and welcomes your footsteps as a part of its ongoing journey. Tackling these events means threading through the natural pace of Park Forest’s environment—not conquering it, but moving alongside a landscape that dares you to keep up.