Check out these half marathons in West Virginia that runners have tested and approved as their favorites in the “Mountain State” where history and fun co-exist.
Freedom’s Run Half Marathon- Shepherdstown
In 2009, West Virginia was ranked second in the nation for obesity and the solution to change that was this half marathon. Freedom’s run, with a cool mix of health and history, attracts runners from across the states looking to run across the Antietam Battlefield.
Kids will be able grab some awards in a one mile event. Families can also enjoy a post race festival for one of the largest races in the state. Awesome swag, pint glasses, and homemade medals are awarded to all participants. Click here to learn more about Freedom’s Run for Kids.
The Course
This certified and challenging course crosses over the Potomac River into Maryland through the civil war town of Sharpsburg. Water stations are positioned every three miles preparing runners for sawmill hill. After the battlefield, you will make your way back over the bridge into Shepherdstown, where they built and tested the steam boat. The race will finish on the fifty yard line Shepherd University Stadium.
Source: Freedom’s Run Facebook
Reviews
“Thank you Freedom’s Run organizers and volunteers for a fabulous day yesterday. It was a challenging day but I had a blast! An extra shout-out to the two awesomely funny Canadians who pulled me through the tow-path portion of the run!” Teresa Ambrosius, Facebook review
“The most well organized and supported races I’ve ever participated in. This was my second time running the half. The course is challenging to the say the least, but the scenery is spectacular. Everything is so well planned and (what I’ve come to learn) a reflection of the people of Shepherdstown. Homemade medals, community involvement, you run with a thousand or less runners vs thousands of runners, weekly emails from the race director a month out and a GOOD LUCK email from him the morning of the race!” Karen Pelton, Facebook review
Harpers Ferry Half Marathon- Harpers Ferry
Running the Harper’s Ferry Half Marathon is a great way to support children with autism and see the history behind the national park and our nation. Since 2011, this small town race, surrounded by the Shenandoah and Potomac River, has supported children’s education and health with one of the most respected nonprofits in the area. Click here for more on history and events for kids.
The Course
The half marathons course- designed by locals is quite the challenge. Mixed with hills and trails, the race will take you through preserved towns of the Civil War era. The elevation takes some drastic swings throughout the race. Here is the course map:
Image Source: harpersferryhalf.org
Reviews
“Great course, fabulous views. I thought the race was very well organized. I don’t think I can complain about anything that you can control. Weather was actually pretty nice with the cloud cover. The hills, well we know there’s nothing you can do about that.” Ginette Prendergast, Facebook review
“Just to clarify there are no hills on this course … try mountains!!! Ha great race, very challenging, well marked, great volunteers.” Mike Giesler, facebook review
UC Half Marathon- Charleston
Developing the lives of students in many areas of “life after college” is the mission behind the only Charleston area half marathon. The race, though small and simple, is part of a larger wellness campaign and continues to grow with running and volunteering of students studying sports business.
A real nice touch is an original homemade biscuit medal for all finishers made by a local artist. Even professors get in on the fun. Click here to learn more about supporting the students.
The Course
According to the marathon’s website, “The UC Half Marathon and 5K are very flat courses with very little to no hills. You will find yourself running along the Kanawha river as well as through the beautiful neighborhoods. It is a very scenic run with plenty of fluid stations and bathrooms throughout.”
Image Source: Active.com
Reviews
“It was wonderful! The volunteers on the course were fantastic and the chocolate milk at the finish was the Best! Thank you for all the hard work put into organizing the races!” Betsy S. Facebook review
“Wonderful race!!! You should be very proud of all your student volunteers. Everyone was extremely positive and upbeat. They were all a wonderful source of encouragement. Great job!!!” Kristy J. Facebook review
Marshall University Half Marathon- Huntington
Whenever there is chance to visit the Marshall University you should run to the opportunity. The St. Mary’s Medical Center hosts this event as part of a healthier US initiative to the area allowing runners to run across the finish line on the Marshall field carrying a football. While raising funds for the wounded warriors project, participants will also get to visit the Marshall University Memorial fountain. Click here to meet Marco the mascot and register early.
The Course
According to the marathon’s website, “The course is flat and fast and USATF certified. It is a perfect course to run to qualify for Boston. Runners start on 3rd Avenue next to Joan C. Edward Stadium and run through downtown Huntington past Pullman Square, next to the Ohio River, and through Ritter Park ”.
Image Source: Marathon’s Facebook Page
Reviews
“This race beat my expectations by far. The course is flat and fast. The double loop was easy to navigate. Very scenic. Ending on the football field was awesome. A very nice touch!” M.C. Marathon Guide Review
“The best part of this event was the finish. I liked being able to take and drop a flower at the memorial fountain in memory of the plane crash victims. The finish in the end zone of the football stadium, with football in hand, was very unique and fun.” M.F. Marathon Guide Review
Veterun Half Marathon – Summit Point
If you would like to run in memory of a fallen Soldier, Marine, Airman or Sailor- this half marathon is your race. There is also a 16.2 warriors challenge, a combination of the 5k and half marathon, located at race track where “Cool Hand Luke” once raced.
The price can range from $50-$125, depending on how early you decide and if you will take the challenge. Medals will be awarded to all finishers even walkers and now wheelchairs!
Any purple heart recipients join the fun for free. Click here to take the challenge and earn more swag.
The Course
The race begins at noon at the Summit Point Motorsports Park. The double loops are fast and friendly with actual restrooms. The course runs through historic circuit tracks that date back to the 1970’s.
Source: Veterun.org
Reviews
“Having the race director himself out handing water and encouraging was my drive to finish as much as my legs said no. This is a great race and filled with great people for a great cause.” David Boyle, facebook review
“Thank you for putting on a wonderful race, great shirts and amazing medals. The half was my favorite of the 3. Thanks to the volunteers and race director! We had a fun race and enjoyed it! Was worth the trip from Pittsburgh!” Bobbi Jo W. facebook review
ACE New River Gorge-ous Trail half Marathon- Minden
It is definitely in the name- Gorgeous!
This half marathon has a home at the ACE adventure resort. A cool place surrounded by a national forest that offers zip lining, whitewater rafting, and an awesome adventure lake to keep the family entertained.
For over 14 years runners have experienced the trials of new river gorge, one of the oldest rivers on the continent with great cultural and natural history. Click here to plan your family adventure and register to run the gorge!
The Course
The trails have little to no flat terrain and considered to be extremely challenging. It is an out and back course that will start and finish at the resort’s dining lodge. The course overlooks beautiful mountains and the town of Thurmond.
video source: aceraft.com
Reviews
“Amazing trails, great post race food and the cleanest campsite shower rooms I have ever seen. I will be returning next year and will bring more Ohio trail runners to West Virginia. Thanks for your efforts.” Andrew H., facebook review
“Highly recommend to anyone who loves nature and adventure. Will do again! (After the middle aged aches subside.)” Lynn H. Facebook review
News and Sentinel Half Marathon- Parkersburg
Not only have the fans recommended this half marathon in West Virginia, but the Road Runners Club of America has also claimed it to be the race of the year.
Even though fifteen is the minimum age for the half marathon, there are ways the whole family can be involved.
For the past 29 years this race has given out many awards to participants, including wheelchair racers and oldest finishers. Click here to get more race details.
The Course
The course offers long easy flat stretches, but it doesn’t come without its challenges. At the end of mile 1 is a steep downhill. Mile 4 has the rolling hills where you should be able to find your pace. You will find tough hills at mile 7 and 11 so make sure to hit your water stops at miles 6 and 10.
Image Source: USATF.com
Reviews
“As a former resident of the mid-Ohio valley, and a Race Walker, this is now my favorite event of the racing season. Even with the hills, heat, humidity, and got sent to the medical tent for the first time in my life, the people and the organization are outstanding.” Neal E., Facebook Review
“Community support for a mid size race was huge. Low registration fee that included Dinner pre-race & lunch post race. Many rolling hills made it a challenging course, over two bridges, even down a major highway. There was outstanding police support, outstanding crowd support and 15 water station with some over 25 volunteers each with ICE cold water and Gatorade and a very nice finishers medal. This is one of my fav races this year.” Sixhoyts, Half 2 Run review
Babcock Gristmill Grinder Trail Half Marathon- Babcock State Park
Not many half marathons fill before race day. Babcock is the exception.
Since 2005, the grinder trail has gained so much popularity that they have had to increase the race cap. The race is held at one of West Virginia most photographic areas for tourists; the Babcock State Park. There is no race day registration. Click for more lodging and race details.
The Course
The marathon’s facebook page proudly states “This event will challenge you with single track trails, occasional short road sections and it will reward you with spectacular overlooks, lush green moss and ferns, rhododendron tunnels, waterfalls and more. The last few miles will take you along the old Sewell road beside beautiful Glade Creek, and up to and past the famous Gristmill.”
Image source: gristmillgrinder.com
Reviews
“This is my 3rd year running this race, and this year my goal is to get it under 3 hours. Taking pictures has always been one of my biggest distractions!!” Kim Conrad, facebook review
“It’s a great run. Lots of great trails. Save some for the end the last 3 miles are the hardest I think, mostly up hill and at the end of the day it gets a bit warm and tiring. It’s totally worth it though and lots of great people.” Paula Smith, facebook review