Pennsylvania provides a variety of half marathons for the running enthusiast, including some super challenging courses like the God’s Country Half Marathon. Read on to learn about some of the favorites of racers across the country.
Pittsburgh Half Marathon
The Pittsburgh Marathon is a big event that is also big on charity. With approximately 40,000 participants each year and over 100 charity partners, the event has raised over 7.5 million (and counting) since 2009. Runners can participate in the Run For A Reason Charity Program and earn a free race entry. Click here to learn how you can register.
The Course
The half marathon is a point-to-point course that is hilly throughout. This makes it challenging course, but runners who pull through are rewarded with gorgeous views of the city as they cross three rivers over five different bridges. There are live bands and cheer teams throughout to keep your motivation level high. See the half marathon course details and elevation map here.
Reviews
“The atmosphere of the Pittsburgh Marathon is incredible!!! This race draws a huge crowd, and gets a lot of local media attention. The spectators are incredibly supportive and energizing! I encountered several spectators offering snacks and water to the runners throughout the course. The race takes you through downtown, and a few surrounding neighborhoods. I was surprised how nice the free shirt was; I was also impressed with the quality of race packet. Big/Fun Expo. Drink stations are always well staffed and well stocked. The volunteers are plentiful and very nice and encouraging.” — Casey Jane, Marathonguide.com Review
“This is my third Pittsburgh Marathon and every time I think it is the best! 2012 was just a wonderful, positive experience. The race course is just fun! You run through so many neighborhoods and fun parts of the city that you don’t even feel like you’re running. The organization is exceptional. They seem to cater to a runner’s every need. I can’t say anything negative about the race. Well, I guess if they could’ve done something about the high temps! The best thing about Pittsburgh is the spectators. They are everywhere, and they cheer you on as if you were their own family members! I highly recommend this race!” — A.G., Marathonguide.com Review
Philadelphia Half Marathon
Professional sports is ingrained in the culture of Philadelphia. With a history dating back to 1954, the Philadelphia Marathon is a major part of that culture. Each year, 30,000 participants from all over the world come to Philadelphia to participate in the event. Click here to see registration dates.
The Course
The half marathon course is fast and mostly flat, except for two climbs at miles 7 and 9. There are 15 cheer zones and 8 hydration stations that will help push you to the finish line. What makes this race extra special is all of the historic landmarks that you will get to see – the Franklin Institute, the Liberty Bell, and Independence Hall to name a few.
Image Source: Philadelphia Marathon
Reviews
“This was my second half marathon and my first time traveling out of town for a race so I was a bit nervous about the logistics. Philly was such an amazing experience though! The spectators and their excitement to be there really make this event. Don’t let the city intimidate you, I highly recommend this race. Hope to see you again Philly!” — Marissa Brace, Facebook Review
“This year was my second time running the Half. I’ve run 11 Half Marathons this year and 6 since Labor Day, but this race is clearly my favorite. A great course…generally flat but with just enough challenges to make it interesting…and just a fun race to run. And the bling this year was just excellent!” — Jim Mietlicki, Facebook Review
God’s Country Half Marathon – Coudersport
The God’s Country Half Marathon is as tough as they come. If you want a real challenge, test your conditioning and your spirit by conquering “The Hill”. Click here to learn more about the event.
The Course
The half marathon course starts at mile 15 of the marathon course. There is a 1.9 mile loop before starting the climb up The Hill. When you reach the peak at mile 18, you will have gained 900 ft in elevation. The remainder of the course is downhill until you reach the town of Coudersport, where you will receive a well-deserved ovation from the supporters.
Image Source: God’s Country Marathon
Reviews
“If you are running this race simply for a medal then you are running for the wrong reasons. I have run this race 5 times and I come back every year for the fine people that work the race, the challenge, the simplicity of the area and the friends I’ve made, not the medal.” — S.H., Marathonguide.com Review
“Once again, a small race delivers. This one was so well organized – full of friendly runners and volunteers (almost all of whom took the time to look up your name as you came into their aid station so they could greet you by name), as well as locals who waved as they drove by (and didn’t aim for you). The hardest part about Denton Hill was switching from uphill running legs to downhill running legs. First-class all of the way – definitely a small PA race to put on your list!” — A.P., Marathonguide.com Review
St. Luke’s Half Marathon – Allentown
The St. Luke’s Marathon has been an annual event in Allentown for over three decades. This is a reflection of the popularity of the event as well as the dedication of the event organizers. Click here for more race info.
The Course
The course is a mixture of city streets and beautiful parks. Something unique to this race is a covered bridge crossing just before mile 9. Other than a few small hills, the course is flat and fast, so there’s a good chance you can hit a PR.
Image Source: St. Luke’s Half Marathon
Reviews
“This was my first half. Wonderful experience. Thank you!!!! I LOVED the post race food. Well organized and run… the potholes in the parkway could have been more clearly marked and/or filled. Bands were helpful but many were not playing as I was running past just bad timing on my part. Volunteers were great!!!! I could have used one more water spot… glad I carried some of my own.” — Carole Burkhardt, Facebook Review
“One of the best ran event I’ve been to over all the years. User friendly course, amazing ppl and so much fun.” — Jason Cesari, Facebook Review
Bird-In-Hand Half Marathon
The Bird-In-Hand Half Marathon is just one of those events that you will never forget. The event is held in Lancaster County in the famous Amish farmlands. The community comes out in full force to support the event and are a huge reason as to why the event is so popular. See what else is unique here.
The Course
Once you are finished admiring the hot air balloon launches, you will start the loop course that takes you through the peaceful Amish farmlands. You will also pass the “Valley of No Wires”, which is a popular training route for local Amish runners.
Image Source: Bird-In-Hand Half Marathon
Reviews
“Pr’d today at Bird-in-Hand 1:55. Happy 34th birthday to me! First time doing this race and was completely blown away! Best race I’ve ever ran. Hot air baloons, food, metals, people, course. Nothing short of amazing. Can’t wait to sign up again.” — Amy McNutt, Facebook Review
“This was our 3rd straight year running the BIH. It is a great family friendly community oriented weekend! My husband, two daughters (7 and 12) and I run the 5K Friday and than I run the half on Saturday. We love the s’mores, family picnic, hot air balloons and all the friendly people! There is nothing better than approaching a water stations to the chants of “water, water, water…” from a group of Amish school children.” — Douglas Metcalfe, Facebook Review
Scranton Half Marathon
The Scranton Half Marathon is a newer race, but that hasn’t stopped them from hitting the ground running. In only its 3rd year for 2016, the event has already received overwhelming praise for it organization, crowd support, and volunteers. Click here for registration dates and details.
The Course
Here’s how the event organizers describe the course:
The Scranton Half Marathon course gives runners of all backgrounds and ability levels the opportunity to experience the City of Scranton from a unique perspective. The course is predominantly roads/blacktop, but there are a few miles of well groomed crushed stone trails, which provide physiological and psychological respite at the perfect point late in the race!
Image Source: Scranton Half Marathon
Reviews
“Race organizers outdid themselves once again! The volunteers were spectacular and that goes from the road crossings(109) to the feed zone water stations. I’ve been in many events all around the world and across the country and this one is run perfectly! Bravo!” — Rob Lettieri, Facebook Review
“My third half, and by far the best. This race is SO well organized; the items presented to finishers are premium and lovely; the course is beautiful; the crowd support is tremendous; the entire city’s investment in / engagement with the race and its runners was absolutely inspiring. Check this race out if you’re looking for a truly special community of people coming together to support a city, its athletes, and its history. It was my mom’s first half and she loved it — I am so happy this was her first race, since her experience could not possibly have been more moving or more positive. THANK YOU, Race Organizers and Race Volunteers! You helped make so many memories for those present.” — Karen-Elizabeth Moroski, Facebook Review
Love Run Philadelphia Half Marathon
Runners love running the Love Run Philadelphia Half Marathon. Another newer event, the Love Run Philadelphia Half Marathon has quickly become the premier Spring running event in the city. Click here to learn more.
The Course
In just 13.1 miles, you will tour the city of Philadelphia and its many landmarks, as well as the always-scenic Fairmount Park. The course is mostly flat, with only one significant hill at mile 7. The course ends at the front of the Art Museum, which may look familiar if you’ve ever seen a certain popular boxing saga of films.
Image Source: Love Run Philadelphia Half Marathon
Reviews
“This was my 2nd half marathon and I absolutely loved it. It’s great to run the streets of Philadelphia and see the sights from that perspective. If you’re looking for a race with a lot of spectator support, this is not the race for you. There are pockets, but for the majority of it, there are few to no spectators. The race announcer was fabulous. He announced your name as you finished and he sounded just as energic three hours later. Very impressive. I may sign up for this race again. It’s fairly flat, minus a couple hilly points around mile 7-9. It’s a great way to keep your self in shape over the winter.” — Amy A., Yelp Review
“Personally, this was a very exciting and unforgettable race experience. It was my very first half marathon. Not just I finished the 13.1 miles; I finished it in a monsoon! I was very determined, motivated and mentally encouraged. Now, I have something to remember for the rest of my life. We were given a bag, and in the lovely bag, I got FREE Phillies tickets, yes FREE! Beer lovers, listen to this, there was a FREE beer- Oh yeah! For us coffee lovers, I got a coffee mug- Double Oh yeah! Last year, we all got that beautiful black high-tech t-shirt, and this year, we got even more beautiful red long sleeves T-shirt. And that’s why they call it “the race that loves you back”.” — Sari A., Yelp Review