Run and Write | Jeremy Criddle

Tunnel Hill 100 Race Guide

When It Is Run

The Tunnel Hill 100 takes place annually on the second Saturday of November, specifically November 8, 2025. The race starts at 7:00 AM Central Standard Time from Vienna City Park in Vienna, Illinois. This timing places the event during late fall when temperatures are cooler, which helps offset the challenges of running on a flat, fast course where heat management becomes crucial during the warmer months. The November date also strategically positions Tunnel Hill as one of the final qualifying opportunities for Western States 100, since it falls within the first week after the last qualifying weekend for the following year’s Western States race. Runners have a generous 30-hour time limit to complete the distance, with the race finishing no later than 1:00 PM on Sunday.

How to Qualify or Register

Registration for Tunnel Hill 100 operates on a first-come, first-served basis rather than a lottery system. The registration typically opens on January 1st each year, though specific timing details should be confirmed through the race website. Unlike many prestigious 100-mile races, Tunnel Hill does not require qualification from previous ultra races to enter. This makes it an accessible option for first-time 100-mile runners who want to attempt the distance without needing to complete qualifying events beforehand. The race attracts a significant percentage of first-time 100-mile finishers, making it particularly welcoming to newcomers to the distance. Entry fees range from approximately $230 for early registration to $290 for late registration, with the race capping participation at around 800 runners across all distance options. Registration fills up relatively quickly due to the race’s reputation as a fast course ideal for personal records and Boston Marathon qualifying times.

Particular Challenges

Despite being labeled as one of the “easier” 100-mile races due to its flat profile, Tunnel Hill presents unique challenges that catch many runners off guard. The primary difficulty lies in pacing and mental toughness on what appears to be a simple course. The relatively flat, runnable terrain makes it easy to go out too fast in the first 50 miles, leading to a crash in the second half where many runners struggle significantly. The repetitive nature of running on the same surface for 100 miles creates unusual stress patterns on muscles, particularly affecting hips, knees, and ankles in ways that more varied terrain might not. Many experienced ultrarunners report that Tunnel Hill “hurts in all kinds of new ways” due to the constant, repetitive foot strikes on the crushed limestone surface. The race has a surprisingly high DNF rate of 40-50%, largely because runners can easily “buckle down” to a 50-mile finish when they reach the start/finish area after completing their first loop. Weather can also present challenges, as November conditions in southern Illinois can range from pleasant fall weather to cold rain and gusty winds.

Course Format

Tunnel Hill 100 follows a modified out-and-back/lollipop format that runners complete twice. The course begins at Vienna City Park and heads south on the Tunnel Hill State Trail for 13.1 miles to the Wetlands Center turnaround, then returns north past the start/finish to a northern turnaround point at 25 miles from the start. Runners then return south to Vienna City Park, completing 50 miles. The entire 50-mile loop is then repeated for the 100-mile distance. This design means that 100-mile runners pass through the famous 543-foot tunnel four times during their race, while 50-mile runners experience it twice. The course layout is particularly spectator and crew-friendly, as support teams can easily access multiple aid stations and see their runners several times throughout the race. The out-and-back sections allow runners to see other participants, which can be motivating, though the course can feel somewhat repetitive over the full 100-mile distance.

Elevation Profile

Tunnel Hill 100 features a remarkably flat elevation profile with only 1,400 feet of total elevation gain over the entire 100 miles, making it one of the flattest 100-mile races in the United States. The course elevation ranges from a low point of 340 feet above sea level at Karnak on the southern end to the highest point of 680 feet at Tunnel Hill, creating an overall gentle 2% grade. The trail follows the former railroad bed of the Cairo and Vincennes Railroad, which naturally maintains consistent, gradual grades suitable for train travel. The elevation changes are so minimal that they barely register as hills to most runners, instead presenting as long, gentle grades that can extend for several miles at barely perceptible inclines. The highest elevation gain occurs over the 15-mile section from the southern wetlands area to the town of Tunnel Hill, where runners gain approximately 600 feet. This gradual nature means there are no significant climbs or descents that would provide relief for different muscle groups, contributing to the repetitive stress challenges that many runners experience on this course.

Terrain Breakdown

The entire Tunnel Hill 100 course consists of 100% unpaved trail surface, primarily composed of crushed limestone. The trail surface is well-maintained and generally provides excellent running conditions, described as smooth and packed with minimal trip hazards. The crushed limestone creates a relatively soft surface compared to asphalt or concrete, which is easier on joints, though it becomes firmer when dry and can turn soft and potentially muddy during wet conditions. Occasional sections feature small gravel patches where trail maintenance and patching have occurred. The surface is wide enough to accommodate multiple runners comfortably, ranging from 40 to 200 feet in width along different sections. Tree coverage provides shade for much of the course, particularly through the Shawnee National Forest sections, though runners will encounter some open areas as well. The trail features numerous scenic elements including old railroad trestles, bridges crossing streams and ravines, rock formations, and passages through wooded wetlands, but the actual running surface remains consistently smooth crushed limestone throughout.

Time Limit and Cutoffs

Tunnel Hill 100 provides a generous 30-hour time limit for all distance options, which is considered quite accommodating for such a flat course. However, the race implements specific intermediate cutoff requirements that runners must meet to continue. The most significant cutoff occurs at the 50-mile mark, where 100-mile runners must complete their first loop in less than 15 hours to be allowed to continue for the second 50-mile loop. This 15-hour cutoff serves as the primary gate for continuing with the 100-mile attempt, though many runners who don’t meet this time often accept the 50-mile finisher buckle instead. Additional cutoff times are established at each aid station and are detailed in the racer’s packet provided at registration. These intermediate cutoffs are calculated to ensure runners maintain a pace that would allow them to finish within the overall 30-hour limit. The race becomes particularly strict about cutoffs after dark, as the Tunnel Hill State Trail is officially closed to non-race participants during nighttime hours. Race volunteers will pick up runners who fall behind the required pace during evening hours, though runners may continue during daylight if they prefer, even if they won’t be counted as official 100-mile finishers. Despite the generous overall time limit, runners are expected to maintain steady forward progress throughout the race without extended breaks.

Aid Stations

Tunnel Hill 100 features three main aid stations that runners visit multiple times during the race, creating a total of twelve aid station encounters for 100-mile participants. The primary stations are located at Karnak at mile 13.1, Vienna City Park at mile 26.2/50 (start/finish), and the northern turnaround point at mile 36.3. These stations are positioned approximately every 12-13 miles, which is considered generous spacing that allows runners to carry minimal supplies between stops. Each aid station is fully stocked with traditional ultra foods including sandwiches, soup, candy, chips, fruit, and various beverages including sports drinks, cola, and water. All three major aid stations allow crew access, making this race particularly crew-friendly since support teams can easily drive between locations and see their runners four times throughout the race. Drop bags are permitted at all three main aid stations, allowing runners to pre-position gear, nutrition, and clothing changes for different stages of the race. The aid stations are staffed by experienced volunteers who understand the needs of ultra runners and provide efficient service to keep runners moving through quickly.

Mandatory Gear

Tunnel Hill 100 has minimal mandatory gear requirements compared to many mountain ultramarathons, reflecting the accessible nature of the course and trail conditions. Runners must carry a headlamp with backup batteries since the race begins at 7:00 AM and many participants will be running through the night during their second loop. The course is well-marked and relatively safe, so extensive safety equipment is not required. Participants are encouraged to carry their own hydration bottles or bladder system since the race operates as a cupless event to reduce environmental waste. Runners should also bring appropriate clothing layers for November weather conditions in southern Illinois, which can range from pleasant 50-60 degree temperatures to cold rain and wind. While not strictly mandatory, gaiters are highly recommended by experienced participants to prevent the crushed limestone surface from getting into shoes and causing discomfort over the long distance. The race organizers provide detailed gear recommendations in the runner packet distributed at registration, but the overall philosophy emphasizes personal responsibility rather than extensive mandatory equipment lists.

Crew and Pacing

Tunnel Hill 100 is extremely crew-friendly, with support teams allowed at all three major aid stations throughout the race. Crews can easily drive between the aid station locations, with clear GPS coordinates and directions provided by race management. The race allows one crew vehicle per runner to manage parking limitations at the aid stations. Pacing is permitted but with specific restrictions that enhance the race’s welcoming atmosphere. Pacers are allowed to join runners at any point after the 50-mile mark, meaning they can start running with participants at the beginning of the second loop. This rule makes pacing particularly strategic since many runners struggle during the second half of this seemingly “easy” flat course. Pacers must check in and out at aid stations with their runners and are expected to follow all race rules including staying behind their runner and not providing unauthorized assistance. The race does not allow “muling,” meaning pacers cannot carry supplies for their runners. Crew members are encouraged to work efficiently to help runners move through aid stations quickly, and many experienced crews use rolling techniques where they meet runners before aid stations to exchange bottles and food while maintaining forward progress.

Navigation

Course marking for Tunnel Hill 100 is excellent and straightforward, reflecting the simple out-and-back nature of the route on the Tunnel Hill State Trail. The entire course follows a single rail-trail path, making navigation virtually foolproof for participants. Race organizers place reflective markers and signage at regular intervals, with special attention paid to the turnaround points at both the southern and northern ends of the course. GPS devices are not required since the course is entirely on established trail infrastructure with clear boundaries. The trail is wide enough that runners cannot accidentally leave the designated path, and the course passes through the famous 543-foot tunnel four times, serving as a major landmark for navigation. Mile markers are posted throughout the course to help runners track their progress and pacing. During nighttime hours, the course markings include reflective elements that are easily visible with headlamps. The only potential navigation challenge occurs at the turnaround points, where runners must be careful to follow the marked path back rather than continuing straight. Aid station volunteers provide additional guidance at these critical points to ensure runners stay on course and complete the full distance properly.

Finish Rates

Tunnel Hill 100 has a surprisingly low finish rate of approximately 50-57% for the 100-mile distance, despite its reputation as one of the “easier” 100-mile races in the country. This completion percentage is much lower than many runners expect when they register for what appears to be a flat, fast course. The 50-mile distance has a significantly better finish rate of around 75-80%, indicating that the additional 50 miles present challenges that many underestimate. Several factors contribute to the lower-than-expected completion rates, including the tendency for runners to start too fast on the seemingly easy terrain and then crash during the second half. The repetitive nature of running on the same crushed limestone surface for 100 miles creates unusual stress patterns that cause many runners to develop problems they haven’t experienced on more varied terrain. Weather conditions in November can also impact finish rates, with cold rain and wind contributing to higher DNF rates in certain years. The race’s generous 15-hour cutoff at 50 miles actually contributes to lower overall finish rates because it allows runners who are struggling to accept the 50-mile buckle rather than continue with the full 100-mile attempt. Many runners who complete 50 miles at Tunnel Hill would not have that option at other races, so they might push through to finish 100 miles elsewhere but choose to stop at Tunnel Hill.

Special Features

Tunnel Hill 100 offers several unique features that set it apart from other ultramarathons, most notably the historic 543-foot railroad tunnel that gives the race its name and provides a memorable landmark that 100-mile runners pass through four times. The race awards distinctive belt buckles for all distance finishers, with special sub-24 hour buckles for 100-mile runners who achieve that time standard. Railroad spike trophies are awarded to age group winners and overall podium finishers, paying homage to the railroad heritage of the course. The event holds multiple course records, including Camille Herron’s women’s world record of 12:42:40 for 100 miles and Charlie Lawrence’s 50-mile world record of 4:48:21. Tunnel Hill serves as a Western States 100 qualifier, making it particularly attractive to runners seeking entry into that prestigious event. The race features a generous drop-down policy where 100-mile participants who don’t complete the full distance but finish at least 50 miles receive official 50-mile finishing times and buckles. This unique policy reduces the stigma of DNF and encourages more runners to attempt their first 100-mile race at Tunnel Hill. The 2025 event will serve as the USATF National Championship for 50 miles, bringing elite competition and prize money to the event. The race maintains strong community ties with Vienna, Illinois, and the surrounding area, with local volunteers providing exceptional support throughout the event.

Previous Winners

Recent male champions of Tunnel Hill 100 include Elov Olsson of Sweden, who set the current course record of 11:26:19 in 2023, which ranks as the third-fastest 100-mile time ever recorded. Phil Young of Davenport, Iowa, has been the most consistent performer, winning the men’s race three times with victories in 2021 (12:44:08), 2022, and setting another fast time in 2023 (12:27:36) when he finished second to Olsson. Zach Bitter, the former 100-mile world record holder, won in 2018 with 12:08:39 but finished second to Phil Young in 2021. Mike Bialick of Minnesota dominated the early years of the race, winning multiple times including 2015 (12:52:53) and establishing himself as one of the most consistent performers in race history. Recent female champions include Julie Hamulecki of Canada, who won in 2024 with 13:32:07 while setting new Canadian records. Micah Morgan claimed the 2023 women’s title in 15:14:14. The legendary Camille Herron holds the women’s course record and world record with her phenomenal 12:42:40 performance in 2017. Stefanie Flippin won back-to-back titles in 2020 and 2021 with strong performances including her 14:04:16 victory. The 50-mile distance has seen equally impressive performances, with Charlie Lawrence setting the current men’s world record of 4:48:21 in 2023, while Courtney Olsen established a new women’s world record of 5:31:56 in 2024, breaking Ann Trason’s long-standing mark.

Official Contact Information

Race director Steve Durbin of Durbin Race Management serves as the primary contact for all Tunnel Hill 100 inquiries. Participants can reach Steve directly via email at durb417@gmail.com for questions about registration, course details, crew information, or general race logistics. The official race website is located at www.durbinracemanagement.com, which contains comprehensive information about all race distances, aid station details, course maps, and runner instructions. Steve Durbin is a certified race director with extensive ultrarunning experience, including multiple 100-mile finishes and a background in managing several other prestigious events including the Strolling Jim 40-mile and Barkley Fall Classic races. Durbin Race Management also partners with Mike Melton of MCM Timing and Results LLC for race timing services, and timing-related questions can be directed to mike@mcmelton.com. The race maintains active social media presence and runners can find updates and community discussion through various ultrarunning forums and the official race website. For immediate race weekend questions or emergencies, contact information is provided in the runner packet distributed at registration, and Steve Durbin is typically available at the finish line area throughout the event to personally address any concerns that arise during the race.