Buckeye Trail Blue Blaze Festival - Half Marathon
Shawnee, United States • 25-26 Sep 2026
Buckeye Trail Blue Blaze Festival - Half Marathon
The Blue Blaze Festival is a two day event in the Village of Shawnee, Ohio, celebrating the Buckeye Trail and National Public Lands Day. Activities are centered on a section of the Buckeye Trail within the Wayne National Forest and involve running, hiking, and backpacking. Organizers are coordinating with local partners including Destination Shawnee and the Tecumseh Theater.
Event options include multiple trail distances held on mostly single track trail with varied terrain. Distances offered include:
- Half Marathon 13.1 miles
- 10K 6.1 miles
- 5K Run/Walk 3.1 miles
- 10 Mile Hike
- Backpacking workshop and overnight backpacking experience
The 10 Mile Hike uses an out and back route that incorporates a looped section of the Buckeye Trail with start and finish in Shawnee. Hikers receive a bib with a timing chip to record start and finish times. The hike is designed and led by the Little Cities of the Forest Chapter of the Buckeye Trail Association and includes a guide with historical points of interest plus a route map. All listed events take place on the Buckeye Trail in the Wayne National Forest and highlight trail access and nearby outdoor amenities in the historic village. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.