The crunch of leaves, cool autumn air and a burst of Halloween spirit set the scene Saturday, Oct. 18, as more than 100 runners took to the trails for Palos Park’s third annual Spooky Shuffle. The festive fall race mixed fitness with fun, giving participants a reason to lace up and celebrate the season surrounded by the beauty of the Sag Valley region.
Hosted by the Palos Park Recreation and Parks Department, the race featured both 5K and 10K distances, drawing participants from across the area to experience one of the few true trail races still offered in the region.
“Palos Park is fortunate to have some of the best Forest Preserves of Cook County right in our backyard,” said Stephen DeFalco, the village’s director of recreation and parks. “A trail race seemed like the perfect way to highlight the natural beauty of Palos Park.”
Palos Park Mayor Nicole Milovich-Walters said the event reflects the village’s values of wellness and community. “I love the Spooky Shuffle because it proves that fitness can be fun,” she said. “It’s amazing to see friends, families, and neighbors embrace healthy lifestyles while enjoying the beauty of Palos Park in the fall.”
Among those taking part were Lily Ligeska, of Palos Hills, and Chris Ciszek, of Oak Lawn. “We were looking for a local 5K or 10K to take part in and we love Swallow Cliff, so this was perfect,” Ligeska said.
Both Ligeska and Ciszek are active runners.
“I really like the neighborhood runs like this. It makes it so much more personal than a larger marathon run in the city.”
DeFalco said the event typically attracts between 100 and 150 runners each year. Entry fees varied based on distance, with proceeds supporting Palos Park capital projects, a key funding source for the village since it does not yet have a parks foundation.
Events like the Spooky Shuffle and Doggie Dash, he added, help fill that gap. “These races make a real difference in what we can do for the community,” DeFalco said.
Runners were treated to a course winding through the forest preserves’ fall foliage, offering a quieter, more scenic experience than typical road races.
“The overall atmosphere is more enjoyable on the trails,” DeFalco said. “It’s a unique experience you don’t get on a busy street.”
This year’s event also emphasized sustainability, reflecting the village’s ongoing partnership with the Forest Preserves of Cook County. Each participant received a reusable Nathan Sports cup to cut down on single-use items at aid stations, and Waste Not provided composting for produce waste generated at the event.
Organizers accepted registrations through race day, adding even more participants to the popular autumn run.
With crisp air, vibrant leaves and a community-focused mission, the Spooky Shuffle once again brought the best of Palos Park’s trails and its people together.
