Lincoln Trail State Park will host a full day of outdoor activity on Saturday, April 18, 2026. This double-feature offers participants the opportunity to help support park improvements in the morning and engage with local ecology in the afternoon. Whether your drive is physical activity casual nature enthusiasm, the park provides the perfect setting for a day of family fun!
Register by April 1 for the 4th Annual Fun Run
The morning kicks off with the 4th Annual 5K Fun Run and Walk, hosted by the Friends of Lincoln Trail State Park (FOLTSP). FOLTSP uses proceeds from this event to fund improvements, such as trail maintenance and new equipment, and activities throughout the season.
To guarantee your official event T-shirt, you must pre-register by April 1. Same-day registration begins at 9:00 AM at the Red Oak Shelter but pre-registering is the only way to secure the commemorative T-shirt. The race officially starts at 10:00 AM on a clearly marked out-and-back course along the main park road.
Picnic at the Park
Between the morning race and the afternoon tour, the park invites families to enjoy a picnic lunch. Utilizing the various shelters and scenic spots allows visitors to recharge before the second half of the day. This break is an excellent time to explore the lakefront or enjoy the playground facilities at Red Oak Shelter.
The Wildflower Walk
At 1:00 PM, the focus shifts from fitness to education. In collaboration with the University of Illinois Extension, Site Superintendent Tom Hintz will lead an interpretive Wildflower Walk.
Participants will meet at the Oak Ridge Area overlook platform. This guided tour is designed to help visitors identify native wildflowers in their natural habitats. Because the trail may involve different types of terrain, attendees should wear sturdy, appropriate footwear. This session is an ideal way for conservation-minded residents to learn more about the local ecosystem from the site superintendent.
Plan Your Visit
To take part in this full day of activity, head to Lincoln Trail State Park in Marshall, Illinois, on Saturday, April 18, 2026. Start your morning at the Red Oak Shelter for the 5K Fun Run and Walk, with registration opening at 9:00 AM and the race beginning at 10:00 AM.
Remember to pre-register by April 1 to guarantee your event T-shirt by sending your $20 fee (checks payable to Friends of Lincoln Trail State Park) and shirt size to 16985 E 1350th Rd., Marshall, IL 62441.
After the race, enjoy a picnic lunch at one of the park’s scenic shelters before meeting at the Oak Ridge Area overlook platform at 1:00 PM for the Wildflower Walk. Be sure to bring sturdy footwear for the interpretive tour and your own lunch to enjoy between events.
