Cook Forest 25k Trail Challenge
- Date Sat 15th August 2026
- Time 9:00AM EDT
- Location Leeper, Pennsylvania
- Price Free
- Races 1 race
Event summary
Join the excitement at the Cook Forest 25K Trail Challenge on Saturday, August 15, 2026, in the picturesque town of Leeper, Clarion, Pennsylvania. This iconic trail running event has captivated participants since 2018, earning a reputation as a must-do race in the Pennsylvania outdoor scene. Set against the backdrop of the stunning Cook Forest State Park, runners will embark on a challenging 25K course that weaves through breathtaking landscapes, including towering evergreens and serene riverfront paths.
The race kicks off with a heart-pounding ascent up the Seneca Trail, leading to the historic Cook Forest Fire Tower, where panoramic views await. As you navigate the rugged terrain, the course offers refreshing breezes along the Clarion River and the peaceful ambiance of Toms Run's shaded trails. With three well-placed aid stations manned by enthusiastic local high school cross country teams, you'll receive all the hydration and encouragement needed to conquer the course.
The Cook Forest 25K isn’t just a race; it's a celebration of community and the great outdoors. Runners of all levels are invited to experience the warmth and camaraderie that this event fosters. Whether you're racing for a personal best or simply enjoying the beauty of nature
The race kicks off with a heart-pounding ascent up the Seneca Trail, leading to the historic Cook Forest Fire Tower, where panoramic views await. As you navigate the rugged terrain, the course offers refreshing breezes along the Clarion River and the peaceful ambiance of Toms Run's shaded trails. With three well-placed aid stations manned by enthusiastic local high school cross country teams, you'll receive all the hydration and encouragement needed to conquer the course.
The Cook Forest 25K isn’t just a race; it's a celebration of community and the great outdoors. Runners of all levels are invited to experience the warmth and camaraderie that this event fosters. Whether you're racing for a personal best or simply enjoying the beauty of nature
Organiser's Description
https://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=134440
Cook Forest 25k Trail Challenge
Since 2018, the Cook Forest 25K Trail Challenge has earned its place as a legendary event in Pennsylvanias trail running scene. Nestled within the ancient woods of Cook Forest State Park, this 25K offers more than just a test of enduranceits a journey through some of the most breathtaking natural beauty the state has to offer. With towering evergreens, riverfront paths, and a deep sense of community, this race feels more like a homecoming than a competition.
packet pickup
packet pick up and day of registration is available at shelter too from 7:45 to 8:45 the morning of the race.
Location
start/finish and packet pickup is at Shelter 2. Address is 2604 Forest Rd. Vowinckel, PA 16233.
GPS coordinates 41.34609 N, 79.21845 W
Course
The course is a rugged and rewarding loop that strings together 13 interconnected trails across more than 17 miles of varied terrain. Your adventure begins with a lung-busting scramble up Seneca Trail, taking you to one of the parks most iconic landmarksthe historic Cook Forest Fire Tower. From this vantage point, the forest stretches endlessly in every direction, offering a preview of the miles to come.
After descending from the tower, runners head into the heart of the course, where miles of trail weave alongside the pristine Clarion River. The cool breezes and flowing water are a welcome reprieve before the course transitions to the tranquil paths of Toms Run, known for its shaded, serene beauty and consistently cool temperatures. The route immerses you in a cathedral of some of Pennsylvanias tallest living evergreen trees, delivering a spiritual kind of solitude only found in old-growth forests.
Aid Stations
Three well-placed aid stations are spaced along the course, each staffed by local high school cross country teams who bring both youthful energy and heartfelt encouragement. These stops provide essential hydration and nutrition to keep runners fueled as they tackle the demanding loop.
Runner Experience
The Cook Forest 25K is more than a trail raceits a shared experience. From the pre-race check-in to the final high-fives at the finish line, runners are embraced by a welcoming, tight-knit community. Whether youre chasing a personal best or soaking in the serenity of the forest, youll find yourself surrounded by people who love the trail just as much as you do. By the end of the day, youre not just a participantyoure family.
Practical Details
Registration is available through UltraSignup. Lodging options include nearby cabins, campsites, and local inns, making it easy to turn race day into a weekend getaway. Weather in the forest can vary, so runners are encouraged to dress in layers and prepare for both sun and shade throughout the course.
About the Organizers
The Cook Forest 25K is hosted by a passionate group of local runners and volunteers committed to showcasing the beauty of their home trails. With a deep connection to the park and a focus on fostering community, this team has created a race thats as heartfelt as it is hardcore
Cook Forest 25k Trail Challenge
Since 2018, the Cook Forest 25K Trail Challenge has earned its place as a legendary event in Pennsylvanias trail running scene. Nestled within the ancient woods of Cook Forest State Park, this 25K offers more than just a test of enduranceits a journey through some of the most breathtaking natural beauty the state has to offer. With towering evergreens, riverfront paths, and a deep sense of community, this race feels more like a homecoming than a competition.
packet pickup
packet pick up and day of registration is available at shelter too from 7:45 to 8:45 the morning of the race.
Location
start/finish and packet pickup is at Shelter 2. Address is 2604 Forest Rd. Vowinckel, PA 16233.
GPS coordinates 41.34609 N, 79.21845 W
Course
The course is a rugged and rewarding loop that strings together 13 interconnected trails across more than 17 miles of varied terrain. Your adventure begins with a lung-busting scramble up Seneca Trail, taking you to one of the parks most iconic landmarksthe historic Cook Forest Fire Tower. From this vantage point, the forest stretches endlessly in every direction, offering a preview of the miles to come.
After descending from the tower, runners head into the heart of the course, where miles of trail weave alongside the pristine Clarion River. The cool breezes and flowing water are a welcome reprieve before the course transitions to the tranquil paths of Toms Run, known for its shaded, serene beauty and consistently cool temperatures. The route immerses you in a cathedral of some of Pennsylvanias tallest living evergreen trees, delivering a spiritual kind of solitude only found in old-growth forests.
Aid Stations
Three well-placed aid stations are spaced along the course, each staffed by local high school cross country teams who bring both youthful energy and heartfelt encouragement. These stops provide essential hydration and nutrition to keep runners fueled as they tackle the demanding loop.
Runner Experience
The Cook Forest 25K is more than a trail raceits a shared experience. From the pre-race check-in to the final high-fives at the finish line, runners are embraced by a welcoming, tight-knit community. Whether youre chasing a personal best or soaking in the serenity of the forest, youll find yourself surrounded by people who love the trail just as much as you do. By the end of the day, youre not just a participantyoure family.
Practical Details
Registration is available through UltraSignup. Lodging options include nearby cabins, campsites, and local inns, making it easy to turn race day into a weekend getaway. Weather in the forest can vary, so runners are encouraged to dress in layers and prepare for both sun and shade throughout the course.
About the Organizers
The Cook Forest 25K is hosted by a passionate group of local runners and volunteers committed to showcasing the beauty of their home trails. With a deep connection to the park and a focus on fostering community, this team has created a race thats as heartfelt as it is hardcore
Races
-
25k Trail Challenge
Sat 15th August 2026 (9:00AM EDT)
Free
CLOSED
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2604 Forest Road, Leeper, 16233, PA, United States
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Cook Forest 25k Trail Challenge
