Best of the West

🏞️ Race Overview

• Event Date: 2026-09-19
• Location: West Branch State Park Beach, Ravenna, OH
• Race URL: Best of the West
• New Addition: NEW 10k for 2026!

🌲 Buckeye Trail Celebration

• Recognition: The Buckeye Trail has recently been designated a State Trail by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources.
• Unique Status: It is only the third trail to receive this recognition.
• Future Development: This new section is the first of more to come!

🌳 Park Features

• Environment: West Branch State Park is predominantly forested with a mix of deciduous and coniferous trees.
• Wildlife: The forest is primarily oak-hickory and provides habitats for deer, foxes, raccoons, squirrels, pheasant, and songbirds.
• Ideal Conditions: The dense canopy provides shade and cool temperatures in the warmer months, making it perfect for hiking and running.

🏃‍♂️ Race Routes

• Marathon Route: Marathoners will make their way around the eastern end of the lake, crossing the dam and proceeding to the campground entrance before returning to the beach.
• Half Marathon: Half marathoners will finish at the turnaround and take a shuttle back to the finish party at the beach.
• 10k Route: 10k participants will complete an all-trail route from the beach to the dam and back.