Best of the West
- Date Sat 19th September 2026
- Time 8:00AM EDT
- Location Ravenna, Ohio
- Price $44.80 - $92.95
- Races 3 races
- Distances Marathon, Half Marathon, 10km
Event summary
Get ready for an exhilarating experience at the Best of the West event on Saturday, September 19, 2026, in the beautiful Ravenna, Portage! This exciting occasion celebrates the newly designated Buckeye Trail section at West Branch State Park, which has recently been honored as a State Trail by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources. Join fellow runners and outdoor enthusiasts in this vibrant forested paradise, home to a mix of deciduous and coniferous trees, along with a diverse range of wildlife.
Participants can choose from three thrilling race distances: the full marathon, half marathon, and a brand new 10k trail run! Marathoners will enjoy a scenic route around the eastern end of the lake, crossing the dam and returning to the beach, while half marathoners will complete a shorter loop and take a shuttle back to the finish party. The 10k route promises an all-trail adventure from the beach to the dam and back, perfect for both seasoned runners and newcomers alike. Don't miss out on this unforgettable day of running and celebration in the stunning natural beauty of West Branch State Park!
Participants can choose from three thrilling race distances: the full marathon, half marathon, and a brand new 10k trail run! Marathoners will enjoy a scenic route around the eastern end of the lake, crossing the dam and returning to the beach, while half marathoners will complete a shorter loop and take a shuttle back to the finish party. The 10k route promises an all-trail adventure from the beach to the dam and back, perfect for both seasoned runners and newcomers alike. Don't miss out on this unforgettable day of running and celebration in the stunning natural beauty of West Branch State Park!
Organiser's Description
NEW 10k for 2026!
We will be celebrating the new Buckeye Trail section at West Branch State Park. The Buckeye Trail has recently been designated a State Trail by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources and is only the third trail to receive this recognition. This new section is the first of more to come!
West Branch State Park is predominantly forested with a mix of deciduous and coniferous trees. The forest is primarily oak-hickory and provides habitats for a diverse array of wildlife, including deer, foxes, raccoons, squirrels, pheasant, and songbirds. The dense canopy provides shade and cool temperatures in the warmer months making it perfect for hiking and running.
Marathoners will make their way around the eastern end of the lake crossing the dam and then continuing to the entrance to the campground before returning back to the beach. Half marathoners will finish at the turnaround and take a shuttle back to the finish party at the beach. 10k participants will complete an all-trail route from the beach to the dam and back.
We will be celebrating the new Buckeye Trail section at West Branch State Park. The Buckeye Trail has recently been designated a State Trail by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources and is only the third trail to receive this recognition. This new section is the first of more to come!
West Branch State Park is predominantly forested with a mix of deciduous and coniferous trees. The forest is primarily oak-hickory and provides habitats for a diverse array of wildlife, including deer, foxes, raccoons, squirrels, pheasant, and songbirds. The dense canopy provides shade and cool temperatures in the warmer months making it perfect for hiking and running.
Marathoners will make their way around the eastern end of the lake crossing the dam and then continuing to the entrance to the campground before returning back to the beach. Half marathoners will finish at the turnaround and take a shuttle back to the finish party at the beach. 10k participants will complete an all-trail route from the beach to the dam and back.
Races
-
Best of the West Marathon
Incl. $7.95 Fee & Giveaway
Sat 19th September 2026 (8:00AM EDT)
$92.95
-
Best of the West Half Marathon
Incl. $6.90 Fee & Giveaway
Sat 19th September 2026 (8:00AM EDT)
$76.90
-
Best of the West 10k
Incl. $4.80 Fee & Giveaway
Sat 19th September 2026 (9:00AM EDT)
$44.80
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West Branch State Park Beach, Marina Drive, Ravenna, 44266, OH, United States
Best of the West
