Best of the West
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Best of the West - West Branch State Park
Best of the West is a set of trail events held at West Branch State Park Beach in Ravenna, Ohio. The event program for 2026 includes a marathon, a half marathon, and a new 10k distance. It celebrates a recently opened Buckeye Trail section that has been designated a State Trail by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources and is the third trail to receive that recognition.
West Branch State Park is predominantly forested with oak-hickory and mixed deciduous and coniferous stands. The park provides habitat for wildlife such as deer, foxes, raccoons, squirrels, pheasant, and songbirds. The dense canopy offers shade and cooler temperatures along the trails.
Course formats and logistics:
- Marathon: out-and-back around the eastern end of the lake, crossing the dam.
- Half Marathon: point-to-point, finishing at the marathon turnaround with shuttle service to the beach.
- 10k: new all-trail out-and-back between the beach and the dam.
The route is described as relatively flat and contains 790 feet of total ascent over 13 miles. Participants receive a triblend tee and a finisher medal. Donations from the event benefit the Crooked River Chapter of the Buckeye Trail Association. Awards include top three overall male and female finishers and top three male and female in 5-year age groups from 19 & Under through 70 & Over. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
