Best of the West

Best of the West

The Best of the West is on Saturday, September 20, 2025. It includes the following events: Best of the West Marathon and Best of the West Half Marathon.

Events

• Best of the West Marathon: $85, 8:00AM EDT - 4:00PM EDT, 8 Hour Cutoff
• Best of the West Half Marathon: $70, 8:00AM EDT - 1:30PM EDT, 5 1/2 Hour Cutoff

Location: West Branch State Park Beach Marina Drive Ravenna, OH 44266

Description 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.

Course 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.