Discover the best marathon races within 50 miles of Harrisburg
The UPMC | YMCA Harrisburg Half Marathon represents one of Pennsylvania's most scenic riverside racing experiences, celebrating its 26th annual running with remarkable growth from humble beginnings of 100 participants to over 1,000 runners and walkers in recent years. This USATF-certified course unfolds almost entirely along the banks of the Susquehanna River, utilizing the unique setting of City Island as both start and finish point. An interesting fact about this race is that it operates on a completely new course design implemented in 2024, featuring a single-loop format that showcases downtown Harrisburg's riverfront beauty while maintaining Boston Marathon qualifying standards.
The Bunny Half Marathon is a looped course event celebrating spring with themed finisher medals. Held annually in late March, it features a walker-friendly policy and strict time limits (3 hours 30 minutes). While primarily a running event, it emphasizes inclusive participation. Interesting fact: The event's course requires runners to complete four out-and-back loops of the same route, creating repetitive terrain challenges.
The Enders YMCA Harrisburg Marathon is a long-standing annual marathon event held in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, known for its fast, flat course and welcoming atmosphere. Established in 1973, it has become a staple in the local running community and attracts runners seeking a Boston Qualifier and personal bests[1][6][11].
The Hershey Half Marathon & Relay is a premier road race that combines scenic challenges with iconic attractions in America's 'Sweetest Place.' Participants run 13.1 miles through Hershey, Pennsylvania, enjoying views of landmarks like Hersheypark, Milton Hershey School, and Chocolate Avenue. The event features a two-person relay division and supports the Children's Miracle Network. A memorable incline on Chocolate Avenue provides a unique finish line challenge.
The Squirrelly Tail Twail Wun Half Marathon is a trail-running event hosted in Gifford Pinchot State Park, Pennsylvania, featuring 13.1 miles of unpredictable terrain including frozen paths, mud, and single-track trails. Known for its no-frills atmosphere, the race emphasizes camaraderie and raw trail experiences, with post-race perks like complimentary hot dogs and chili.
The Double Creek Half Marathon, 5K & Bike Tour is a running and cycling event held in Dover, Pennsylvania. It traditionally includes a half marathon, a 5K run, and a bike tour segment.
A fast, USATF-certified half marathon in York, Pennsylvania, part of the York Marathon and Half Marathon event. The course transitions from city streets to the York County Heritage Rail Trail with minimal elevation changes, making it PR-friendly despite above-ideal temperature and humidity levels. The marathon's PR Score of 98.65 reflects conditions slightly less ideal for optimal performance, though the course remains highly ranked for speed[1][5].
The Buck Ridge Burn Trail Half Marathon stands as one of Pennsylvania's most challenging trail races, weaving through the rugged terrain of Michaux State Forest in Adams County. This gnarly half marathon features over 1,700 feet of elevation gain across its 13.1-mile course, with 95% of the route on unpaved trails[1][2]. An interesting fact about this race is that it maintains an unusually generous time limit of 4 hours and 15 minutes, acknowledging the technical difficulty of the terrain while encouraging participation from trail runners of all abilities[5].
The Roger Snyder Memorial Half Marathon is a chip-timed road race in Richfield, Pennsylvania, designed to support education through the Roger Snyder Scholarship Fund. Welcoming both first-time and experienced runners, it features a scenic rural course. The event fosters a family-friendly atmosphere with a 'Leaving Footprints for Our Future' theme.
The Snack Town RunFest Half Marathon is a premier chip-timed 13.1-mile road race held in Hanover, Pennsylvania, known for its community-centric energy and post-race festivities. While the town is famously dubbed 'Snack Town' due to its history with snack food production, the RunFest celebrates endurance, fun, and community with live music, a Beer Bash, and competitive age group awards. The event is welcoming to both competitive and recreational runners, providing a supportive and festive environment.
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