2027 Path of the Flood Historic Races
Path of the Flood Historic Races trace the 1889 Johnstown Flood along a historic 14-mile course.
Expected Race Date
~May 2027
Date not yet announced — this is when the race usually runs.
Location
Johnstown, PA
Quick facts
- Date
- around May 2027 (expected)
- Location
- Johnstown, Pennsylvania
- Distance
- Half marathon (13.1 mi)
- Course
- Loop Course
- Terrain
- Mixed
- USATF certified
- Not listed
Highlights
Good For
Atmosphere
Course
The Experience
The Path of the Flood Historic Races, now in its 12th year, offers a one-of-a-kind journey through history. Starting amid the haunting ruins of the South Fork Dam, runners trace the devastating 1889 Johnstown Flood along a 14-mile hybrid road and rail trail course. The route passes through the Staple Bend Tunnel, America’s first railroad tunnel, and ends at the Old Stone Bridge, which withstood the flood’s fury.
With a median field around 330 runners, the event draws a dedicated following—about a third return each year—from some 18 states. The point-to-point course, embracing the flood’s path, is relatively flat and fast (typical winning time around 77 minutes), though the main draw is the immersive historical narrative. This is a race for those who appreciate unique stories, small-town character, and a sense of resilience.
The finish at the Old Stone Bridge is a quiet triumph, with post-race community warmth and a commemorative T-shirt. All proceeds support local trail preservation, making this an event that gives back to the very landscapes it celebrates.
Race-provided description
Search:
open Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from 10:00 am-5:00 pm, Sunday noon-5:00 pm; and closed Tuesday. We will update this alert ribbon (and, in the instance of longer closures, the Heritage Johnstown Facebook Page) (https://www.facebook.com/heritagejohnstown) if either or both museums are closed due to severe weather.
Special events calendar is here (https://www.heritagejohnstown.org/events/).
The Path of the Flood Historic Races
The 12th running of the Path of the Flood Historic Races is May 23, 2026!
Digital registration for the races is now closed. Same-day registration is available for the 5K race only, although we cannot guarantee race swag (t-shirt, etc.) for same-day registrants. Arrive at Peoples Natural Gas Park from 5:30-7:00 am on May 23 to register!
2026 will welcome the Path of the Flood Historic Races for their 12th running. Once again, the 14 Mile course will start within the ruins of the South Fork Dam and sweep runners along the South For
Logistics
Race Day
around May 2027 (expected)
Start Time
TBA
Start Location
90 Johns Street, Johnstown, PA, 15901
Course Info
Course Type
Loop Course
Terrain
mixed
Scenery
Small Town, Rural
Surface
Dirt Trail, Paved
Difficulty
Rolling Hills
Quality Score
Standout615 years running
~330 finishers a year
shrinking
34% returning runners
4 timing sources
runners from 18 states
winner 1:17:04
typical high 74°F
Frequently asked
When is the 2027 Path of the Flood Historic Races?
The 2027 Path of the Flood Historic Races hasn't announced its next date yet, but it typically takes place around May 2027 (expected).
Where does the 2027 Path of the Flood Historic Races take place?
It takes place in Johnstown, Pennsylvania.
What distances does the 2027 Path of the Flood Historic Races offer?
The half marathon (13.1 miles).
Is the 2027 Path of the Flood Historic Races course flat and good for a PR?
The 2027 Path of the Flood Historic Races is a rolling hills, loop course course.
HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.
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