The Frozen Gnome 10K was a muddy, brutal challenge winding through Veteran Acres and Sterne’s Woods in Crystal Lake, Illinois. Organized by Ornery Mule Racing, the event followed days of heavy rainfall, leaving the trails muddy as hell. The race began and ended in a light snowfall, adding to the already harsh conditions. One runner stood at the front of the start line in a playful gnome costume topped with a red cone hat.
The course is rated Triple Black Diamond which means it’s exceptionally difficult. Runners could choose between a 50K ultra or the 10K, with the ultra athletes tackling a grueling 6.2-mile loop five times. Steep climbs and punishing descents defined the terrain. One infamous section, “Butt Slide Hill,” was so steep that runners had to descend while holding onto a rope.
The trail was highly technical, littered with roots, rocks, and fallen trees. Despite the frigid temperatures and relentless difficulty, the course delivered stunning scenery. A family of four deer sprinted across the trail just ten feet in front of me and another runner. Towering pine trees lined much of the route through the woods. As tough as the race was, the camaraderie among runners (common in the trail community) made the experience even more memorable. My brother Brian and I loved the suburban challenge, embracing every muddy mile. “When you sign up for the Frozen Gnome, you’re not committing to a casual run. With two inches of rain just days before and a mix of rain / snow on race day, it fully lived up to its reputation.” – Brian Doellman
- DISTANCE: 10K
- DATE: January 10, 2026
- LOCATION: Crystal Lake, IL
- PLACE: 21 out of 248
- TEMPERATURE: 37°
- TIME: 1:03:03
Posted By
Kevin Doellman
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by Kevin Doellman