Chippewa Creek Challenge
Chippewa Creek Challenge offers a scenic trail run through Ohio's vibrant autumn foliage.
Race Date
Oct 24, 2026
Location
Brecksville, OH
Quick facts
- Date
- Saturday, October 24, 2026
- Location
- Brecksville, Ohio
- Distance
- Half marathon (13.1 mi)
- Course
- Loop Course
- Terrain
- Trail
- USATF certified
- Not listed
- Finishers on record
- 994
Highlights
Atmosphere
Course
The Experience
The Chippewa Creek Challenge invites runners into the heart of Brecksville Reservation, a Cleveland Metroparks gem, for an autumn trail experience. The course winds through a landscape ablaze with fall colors, a vibrant spectacle of reds, oranges, and golds. This race celebrates the endurance and spirit of exploration embodied by the local salamanders that call Chippewa Creek home.
While the course is primarily trail, the ~350 finishers suggest a community race. With runners typically coming from about seven states, it offers a local draw with a touch of destination appeal. The race, first run in 2020 and now in its sixth edition, sees about 20% of participants returning, indicating a loyal following for this unique fall event.
Race-provided description
Are you ready to conquer the ultimate autumn adventure? Join us for an unforgettable trail experience among the stunning beauty of the Brecksville Reservation in the heart of the Cleveland Metroparks. Lace up your shoes and immerse yourself in the stunning fall foliage – a vibrant symphony of reds, oranges, and golds that can only be found during the peak of fall. Our race logo pays homage to the whimsical Spotted, Redback, and Jefferson Salamanders that call Chippewa Creek their home. In the Spring, these tiny creatures embark on a journey from the woods to vernal breeding pools, symbolizing endurance and the spirit of exploration – qualities you'll embody as you tackle the Chippewa Creek Challenge.
Logistics
Race Day
Saturday, October 24, 2026
Start Time
9:00 AM
Giveaway
Giveaway
Start Location
Oak Grove Picnic Area, Brecksville Reservation, Brecksville, OH, 44141
Course Info
Course Type
Loop Course
Terrain
trail
Scenery
Forest
Surface
Dirt Trail
Difficulty
Ultra-Flat
Net Drop/km
0 m (Flat)
Separation
0.0%
Quality Score
Standout626 years running
~352 finishers a year
shrinking
20% returning runners
5 timing sources
runners from 7 states
winner 1:37:06
typical high 61°F
Race Day Weather
5-year historical avgStart (Low)
45°
Afternoon (High)
61°
Pleasant conditions — light layers at start, comfortable by finish
0.1"
Precipitation
11 mph
Wind
70%
Humidity
Historical Finish Times
How 994 finishers actually crossed the line across 6 years.
Most recent
2025
Total finishers
994
Median time
2:34:31
Latest turnout
187
States
16
Turnout by year
2020–2025
Hover the histogram to inspect specific finish times.
Race Photos
Frequently asked
When is the Chippewa Creek Challenge?
The Chippewa Creek Challenge is held on Saturday, October 24, 2026, starting at 9:00 AM.
Where does the Chippewa Creek Challenge take place?
It takes place in Brecksville, Ohio.
What distances does the Chippewa Creek Challenge offer?
The half marathon (13.1 miles).
Is the Chippewa Creek Challenge course flat and good for a PR?
The Chippewa Creek Challenge is a ultra-flat, loop course course.
How many people run the Chippewa Creek Challenge?
HalfRuns has finish records for 994 runners who have completed the Chippewa Creek Challenge.
HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.
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