Best of the West Marathon & Half Ravenna, OH   Sep 19, 2026

Best of the West celebrates 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.

The Marathon is an out and back. The Half Marathon is a point to point. All participants start together, and Half Marathon participants will finish at the Marathon turnaround and take a shuttle back to the start. The route is relatively flat and contains 790 feet of total ascent (over 13 miles). A perfect course for new and experienced runners and hikers.