Best of the West

Best of the West

Best of the West is a trail race held at West Branch State Park Beach and is part of the Ohio Endurance Series. Distances offered include:

• Marathon
• Half Marathon (hikers welcome)
• 10k (new for 2026, hikers welcome)

The Marathon is an out and back route that travels around the eastern end of the lake, crosses the dam, continues to the campground entrance, and then returns to the beach. The Half Marathon is a point to point; half marathon finishers complete the turnaround used by marathoners and take a shuttle back to the beach. The 10k is an all-trail out and back between the beach and the dam. The course is described as relatively flat and contains 790 feet of total ascent over 13 miles.

West Branch State Park is predominantly forested with oak-hickory and mixed deciduous and coniferous trees. The area provides habitat for deer, foxes, raccoons, squirrels, pheasant, and songbirds. The forest canopy offers shade and cooler temperatures during warmer months.

Event swag includes a triblend tee and a finisher medal. Donations benefit the Crooked River Chapter of the Buckeye Trail Association. Awards are given to the top three overall male and female finishers and to the top three male and female finishers in standard five-year age groups. Participation in four Ohio Endurance Series events qualifies an athlete for series recognition and related awards. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.

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