New Cross Country course opens to the public in Geneva

KANE COUNTY – The Northwestern Medicine Cross Country Course is now open to the public. The course is located at the Settler’s Hill site in Geneva.

According to a news release, the opening of the course was more than a decade in the making.

“The opening of the Northwestern Medicine Cross Country Course at Settler’s Hill is the culmination of the leadership, commitment and hard work of many individuals within Kane County government,” said Kane County Board Chair Corinne Pierog.

“It is truly a shining gem in the county that will bring countless economic and health benefits to our residents for years to come, and serve as a place where our nation’s finest high school and collegiate runners will showcase their talents on the road to their dreams,” Pierog said.

The nearly $4 million course, funded with tipping fees collected over the years from the landfill, is unique in the Midwest and provides spectators and runners alike with a panoramic view as far as the Chicago skyline. It is designed for high school and collegiate meets, but also can accommodate all ages, the release stated.

Kaneland High School Boys Cross Country Head Coach Chad Clarey said he is grateful to all those who have made this course possible and that it will help fulfill a big need to have a championship facility close to home.

“The Illinois High School Association continues to struggle with finding schools, and more notably hosts, for state level competitions like Regionals and Sectionals,” Clarey said. “The Northwestern Medicine Cross Country Course is going to be available each year to help our local runners and programs to fulfill that need for space to run competitive races at three miles. Beyond high school, an intercollegiate meet is scheduled this fall. This event should gain more chances to help the NCAA in their efforts to have championship level competitions in the Midwest.”

The Northwestern Medicine Cross Country Course also is available for the public to enjoy year-round.

Parking for the cross-country course is just north of the Fox Valley Ice Arena. Upon driving into the entrance for the arena, residents will see a gravel trail that leads directly up the hill. The cross country parking lot is adjacent to that trail.