Best Of The West Marathon & Half Marathon
Ravenna, United States • 20 Sep 2025
Best of the West : Ravenna, OH (September 20, 2025)
Best of the West is a trail race held at West Branch State Park Beach in Ravenna, OH (GPS 41.1369618, -81.1039476). The event includes the following distances:
- Marathon
- Half Marathon
Course, logistics and extras
The Marathon is an out-and-back route that goes around the eastern end of the lake, crosses the dam, continues to the campground entrance, and returns to the beach. The Half Marathon is a point-to-point that finishes at the Marathon turnaround; all participants start together and half marathon finishers take a shuttle back to the beach. The route is relatively flat and contains 790 feet of total ascent (over 13 miles). The Marathon event lists "Hikers Welcome."
Donations benefit the Crooked River Chapter of the Buckeye Trail Association. Registered participants receive a triblend tee and a finisher medal. Awards include top 3 overall male and female and top 3 male and female in 5-year age groups from 24 & under through 70 & over. Best of the West is part of the Ohio Endurance Series; participation in four series events qualifies an athlete for series awards. Registration fees vary by period (early, regular, late) and the Half Marathon registration includes the shuttle from finish back to the beach. Parking is at West Branch State Park Beach and shuttles run every 30 minutes. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.