2026 Yough River Trail Council Races

Fifteen editions in, the Yough River Trail Council Spring Races remain a wonderfully small affair: about 50 runners at the most recent start, with a loyal core — roughly a quarter of the field returns in later years. Organized by an all-volunteer crew that maintains a 23-mile section of the Great Allegheny Passage, this is a race built by and for trail lovers.

The half-marathon distance unfolds along the rail trail near Connellsville, Pennsylvania, where the only crowd noise is the rustle of leaves and the rhythm of footfalls. It's a smooth, runnable surface that invites a steady rhythm, and the winning time typically lands around 89 minutes — a sign that the competition is earnest but friendly. Proceeds go back into trail upkeep and supplies, so every entry fee makes the path better for everyone.

Expect a low-key, community-driven morning. With such a small field, you'll find no elbow-to-elbow corrals or overrun aid tables — just an unhurried, genuine race that feels like a secret worth keeping.