North Shore Distance Running Club (NSDRC)
The North Shore Distance Running Club (NSDRC) is a well-established running club dedicated to distance runners, particularly those interested in training for half and full marathons. With a rich 15-year history, the NSDRC has successfully guided hundreds of runners to achieve their best marathon or half marathon performances. Boasting a collective completion of well over 1000 marathons, the club's extensive expertise has garnered recognition from CARA, leading to a partnership for their Winter and Summer Marathon Training Programs.
Libertyville Running Cult
Libertyville Running Cult is a vibrant and welcoming running club that brings together runners of all levels to share their passion for running. With a strong emphasis on community and camaraderie, members of this club enjoy exploring new routes, pushing their limits, and supporting each other's goals. Whether you're a beginner looking to start your running journey or an experienced runner seeking new challenges, Libertyville Running Cult is the place to be.
Des Plaines River Trail Races Training Group
Join the Des Plaines River Trail Races Training Group to prepare for the DPRT Half Marathon, Marathon, and 50 Mile Trail Races. Our dedicated group of runners focuses on building endurance, speed, and mental toughness through structured training programs and group runs. Whether you are a beginner looking to complete your first race or an experienced runner aiming for a personal best, our supportive community will help you achieve your goals and push your limits. Come join us on the trails and experience the camaraderie and motivation that define our group.
Lake County Run Club
Lake County Run Club is a welcoming community for runners of all levels, whether you're just starting out or a seasoned marathon runner. The club aims to motivate and inspire runners, regardless of location. Led by Kuffel, the club is transitioning to consolidate activities on Strava, offering a fun and supportive environment for all members to connect and challenge themselves on the road.
Grayslake Running Club
Grayslake Running Club is a community-focused running club dedicated to promoting health and fitness through group runs, training programs, and social events. With a strong emphasis on inclusivity and support, members of all levels are welcome to join and participate in various activities. Whether you are a beginner looking to start your running journey or an experienced runner seeking to improve your performance, Grayslake Running Club offers a welcoming environment for all. Join us to connect with fellow runners, explore new routes, and achieve your fitness goals together.
Alpine Runners
Alpine Runners, a prominent running club in the Chicagoland region, boasts a membership of nearly 500 individuals. The club offers a wide range of pace groups starting from 7:30 minutes per mile and incrementing by 30-second intervals up to 12:00 minutes plus per mile, catering to various running abilities. During marathon season, the club sees a significant turnout of around 200 participants on Saturday mornings. Members benefit from inclusive training programs and have the opportunity to participate in the annual Alpine Races, a tradition spanning 40 years featuring distances ranging from 5k to a half-marathon, along with youth mile and kiddie races. The club also hosts Group Runs throughout the week. Visit their website for more details.
Deer Grove Trail Runners
Deer Grove Trail Runners is a community of passionate trail runners who come together to explore nature's beauty while pushing their limits on the trails. With a focus on camaraderie and inclusivity, this group welcomes runners of all paces to join them for challenging workouts and the shared love of running. Their philosophy of 'NO ONE LEFT BEHIND...EVER...EV-ER!!' exemplifies their commitment to supporting each other on the trails, fostering a sense of belonging and encouragement among members.
Chicagoland Trailblazers Hiking Group
Join the Chicagoland Trailblazers Hiking Group for a diverse and inclusive outdoor hiking experience. Established in 2008, the group offers a variety of weekend hikes in scenic locations around Chicagoland, ranging from 5 to 6.5 miles with shorter options available. Safety is a top priority, with hikes planned to accommodate different paces and terrains. The group welcomes adults of all backgrounds and experience levels, fostering deep friendships and a shared love for nature. With a focus on respect, safety, and inclusivity, members can enjoy guided hikes led by experienced organizers, while also having the flexibility to explore at their own pace. Whether you seek solitude in nature or socialize with fellow hikers, this group offers a positive and fun environment for all outdoor enthusiasts.
Park Ridge Runners
Park Ridge Runners is the official Strava group for dedicated runners residing in and around Park Ridge, Illinois. With a focus on fostering a supportive and active community, members of all levels are encouraged to join to share their passion for running, set goals, and motivate each other to achieve new personal records. Whether you're a seasoned marathoner or just starting out on your running journey, Park Ridge Runners provides a platform for connecting with like-minded individuals, participating in group challenges, and staying updated on local running events and races.
Augustana College Alumni
Augustana College Alumni running club is dedicated to promoting a healthy and active lifestyle through running. With a strong emphasis on camaraderie and support, members of the club strive to achieve their fitness goals together while fostering a sense of community. Whether you are a seasoned runner or just starting out, the club welcomes all alumni to join in on group runs, training sessions, and various social events. The journey with Augustana College Alumni is not just about reaching the finish line, but about enjoying the process and building lasting friendships along the way.
Hillstriders
Hillstriders is a vibrant community running club catering to individuals of all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned athletes. Members participate in a variety of running events ranging from 5K races to challenging ultra marathons, all while fostering a supportive and inclusive atmosphere. The club's signature weekly group run, held every Tuesday evening at Main Beach in Crystal Lake from Memorial Day to Labor Day, covers a picturesque 4.3-mile course around the lake, followed by post-run festivities featuring pizza and refreshments provided by the club. Additionally, Hillstriders proudly organizes the popular March Madness Half Marathon and the festive Thanksgiving Day 5K, further exemplifying its commitment to promoting a healthy and active lifestyle within the community.
Crystal Lake, IL Runners
Crystal Lake, IL Runners is a vibrant and inclusive running club that welcomes runners of all ages and abilities. With a strong sense of community and camaraderie, members gather regularly to enjoy group runs, training sessions, and social events. Whether you're a beginner looking to improve your fitness or an experienced runner aiming for new personal bests, this club offers support and motivation to help you achieve your goals. Join Crystal Lake, IL Runners to be part of a fun and supportive running community in the beautiful surroundings of Crystal Lake, Illinois.
Elmhurst Running Club
Elmhurst Running Club invites you to join their inclusive and social running group, exploring various scenic routes like the Prairie Path, Morton Arboretum, Waterfall Glen, and Salt Creek Trail. They foster a supportive environment for runners of all ages to learn, grow, and contribute to the running community.
NW Trail Blazers Running Group
NW Trail Blazers Running Group is a re-branded club catering to trail running enthusiasts who enjoy exploring forest preserves, conservation areas, parks, and more while connecting with like-minded individuals. Participants can expect a mix of nature appreciation, fitness challenges, and social interactions. It's important to note that trail running/walking entails some risks due to natural elements like roots, rocks, and uneven terrain. While most trails are maintained, trip hazards may exist. The club emphasizes personal responsibility for safety during events.
Berwyn Runners Club
Berwyn Runners Club is a vibrant community of running enthusiasts who come together for weekly group runs. Whether you're a seasoned runner or just starting out, Berwyn Runners Club welcomes you to join their inclusive and supportive environment. Connect with fellow runners, explore different routes, and challenge yourself to reach your fitness goals. Follow @berwyn_runners_andwalkers_club to stay updated on upcoming runs and events, and use #berwynrunners #berwynruns #brc to share your running journey with the community.
Chicago Area Runners Association
The Chicago Area Runners Association (CARA) is a prominent non-profit organization dedicated to supporting and advocating for the local running community in the Chicagoland area. As the nation's third-largest running club, CARA offers a wide range of accessible opportunities for runners of all levels to train, participate in races, enhance their knowledge, socialize, and contribute through volunteering. With over 1,300 diverse programs and events annually, CARA stands as a key voice for local runners, fostering a vibrant and inclusive running culture. For more information, visit www.cararuns.org.
Three Run Two
Three Run Two is a running club driven by a deep-rooted passion for personal growth, fostering a tight-knit community, and promoting cultural awareness through the shared love of running. Members come together to support each other in their fitness journeys, push their limits, and celebrate the joy of running as a way of life.
Chicago Beer Runners
Chicago Beer Runners is a welcoming and social club for runners of all levels who enjoy meeting like-minded individuals in a relaxed and inclusive setting. They organize biweekly runs around Lakeview, where participants can run at their own pace and socialize over cold beverages afterwards. The club embraces runners regardless of experience, aiming to create a noncompetitive and supportive community. Whether the weather is sunny and warm or cold and snowy, the Chicago Beer Runners continue their activities year-round, including races and social gatherings. Join this vibrant group for a fun and inclusive running experience!
Glen Ellyn Runners
Established in 1999, Glen Ellyn Runners is a vibrant running club based in the western suburbs of Chicago, offering a year-round community for runners of all levels. With a membership exceeding 250 individuals, the club provides access to proven training programs, experienced coaches, and diverse social opportunities. The club caters to both recreational and competitive runners, fostering a supportive and dynamic environment where members of all ages can pursue their passion for running together.
West Loop Run Crew
West Loop Run Crew is a neighborhood running club sponsored by CARA, gathering every Thursday at 6:00 am at the corner of Randolph and Peoria (NOBU). The club offers 5.0-mile runs along various scenic routes including Chicago Riverwalk/Lakefront, UIC/Pilsen, and West Town. The members, comprised mostly of competitive runners, are actively training for a range of long-distance and short-distance races as well as triathlons. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced runner, all paces are accommodated. To join, sign up for a free membership to the Chicago Area Runners Association (CARA) at the Friend Level Membership.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there beginner-friendly running clubs in Lake Forest?
Yes, many clubs in Lake Forest welcome runners of all levels, including beginners. Most groups have pace groups for different skill levels.
Where do local running groups in Lake Forest typically meet?
Clubs often meet at parks, tracks, or central city landmarks. Each group lists their typical meeting spots on their profiles.
Do I need to register before joining a run?
Most clubs are drop-in friendly, but it's a good idea to check their schedule or contact them in advance.
What should I bring to my first group run?
Bring water, comfortable running shoes, and a positive attitude. Some groups provide water stations, but it's always good to bring your own.