Outlast Chicago

What Is OUTLAST?

OUTLAST is a 6-hour trail endurance challenge where runners complete a 5K every hour, on the hour. Each lap must be finished within the hour to stay in the event. If you finish early, you rest until the next round. Miss a lap, and you’re out.

Complete all six rounds, and you OUTLAST.

This isn't just about speed — it's about pacing, discipline, and mental grit. Whether you're trying to survive all six or win your division, the challenge is the same: show up each hour, push your limits, and stay in it.

Each course is trail-based, with natural terrain, elevation, and unpredictable conditions. You’ll have time between rounds to recover, refuel, and refocus — but not much.

What You Earn:

​4 laps = “Grit Earned” patch

5 laps = “Survivor” patch

6 laps = Premium “OUTLAST” 6-inch medal

​​All participants receive a premium OUTLAST Tee.

Top male and female with the fastest combined 5K times at each event win the 1st Place OUTLAST award. 

Finishers are ranked on the world leaderboard—and the fastest runner across all OUTLAST 6-hour events (including the Championship) will be crowned World Champion and take home a cash prize of $1,000.

The top 5 Male and Female 6-hour champions from each city will earn a spot in the Outlast World Championship in DFW December 4 2027, where they’ll compete against the best of the best at the end of the Tour, and the 1st-3rd place male and female winners of the Championship take home a cash prize, listed below. (This is separate from the world leaderboard prize money.)

1st place = $1,200

2nd place = $800

3rd place = $500

Frequently Asked Questions:

Do I have to run all 6 laps?

Nope. Run as many as you can. If you complete 4 or 5, you'll still earn a patch. Only those who finish all 6 get the OUTLAST medal and leaderboard ranking.

What happens if I don’t finish a lap in time?

You're out. The next lap starts at the top of the next hour, and only those who completed the last lap on time can continue.

How is the race timed?

Each 5K is timed individually. If you complete all 6, your combined time counts toward the local win and world leaderboard.

Are these trail races or road?

Every OUTLAST race is on trail terrain — dirt, rocks, roots, and elevation. Sometimes some pavement and gravel.

Can I walk?

Yes, as long as you finish the 5K within the hour. But some courses are rugged, and time can sneak up on you.

Are there aid stations?

Yes. There will be water, basic hydration, and snacks at the basecamp/loop start. This is a cupless event — bring your own bottle or hydration system.

What should I bring?

Trail shoes, hydration system, layers (weather dependent), fuel between laps, and grit.

Can I setup a tent?

Absolutely, bring your own aid station/tent setup.

Is OUTLAST for beginners?

Yes — if you're mentally tough. You don’t need to be fast, just consistent and ready to suffer a little.

How do I win?

If you finish all 6 laps and have the fastest combined time, you win your division (male/female). Winners are also added to the world leaderboard for a shot at the $1,000 national prize & title.