The Real People Helping People 5K 10k 2.5 mile race returns to Lock Haven, Pennsylvania on October 10th, offering runners a chance to support the community through scenic trail races. The event takes place in McElhattan at the Durty Dabber Pavilion and features distances for all ages and abilities. Runners can choose from challenging terrain in the 10K loop or moderate trails in the 5K route, with an untimed option available for families and beginners.
Race morning brings cool temperatures typical of early fall in Pennsylvania, ranging between 7.4°C to 18.4°C on average, with a humidity level around 72%. The trail conditions are firm but slightly soft underfoot, offering runners a natural surface that challenges yet accommodates various skill levels. Bystanders and family members can enjoy the day while watching from nearby Zindel Park or McElhattan Nature Park.
Since its inception in [year not provided], the Real People Helping People race has become an integral part of Lock Haven's community calendar, drawing hundreds of participants annually to support local youth programs and athletes. Each year, proceeds benefit the Haven Summer Youth Program and the Central Mountain Cross Country team, ensuring that funds go directly into fostering healthy activities for children during summer break.
The scenic 10K trail winds through wooded singletrack trails in Zindel Park and McElhattan Nature Park, offering a challenging course with significant elevation gain. Runners will experience varied terrain from Goat Path to Kellers Bench before returning to the Durty Dabber Pavilion. The moderate 5K route follows Creekside Trail into McElhattan Nature Park's large loop and crosses a bridge over the creek on its return path, providing runners with picturesque views along the way.
Weather conditions for race day in October typically feature mild temperatures of around 12.9°C (feels like) under moderate UV exposure at an index level of 4.0, while rainfall averages only about 2.6mm, making for generally dry and comfortable racing conditions. The trail surface is firm yet slightly soft, providing a natural path that challenges runners with varied terrain.
The Real People Helping People race offers three distinct distances: the challenging but scenic 10K loop around Zindel Park and McElhattan Nature Park; a moderate 5K route through Creekside Trail and back to the Durty Dabber Pavilion; as well as an untimed, family-friendly 2.5 mile trail run along shaded forest paths.
10K
10K • Start: 08:30:00 • Fee: $45.00
2.5K Nature Trail Untimed
2.5K • Start: 09:00:00 • Fee: $45.00
5K
5K • Start: 09:00:00 • Fee: $45.00
For registration, participants can visit https://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=135612 by August 24th for a guaranteed T-shirt and entry fee of $45.00 per race distance. Late registrations open on the day at 7:30 AM with an additional donation required. Bib pickup is available from September 9th to October 8th at the Durty Dabber Pavilion, where participants must bring their confirmation email or printout.
The start location for all distances is located at 274 Reservoir Rd, Lock Haven, PA 17745. Age requirements are not specified but typically cater to a range of runners from young children up through adults. First-time attendees should be prepared with proper footwear suitable for trail running and water bottles.
The Real People Helping People 5K 10k 2.5 mile race in Lock Haven, Pennsylvania on October 10th is an event that not only celebrates the beauty of local trails but also supports essential community programs like the Haven Summer Youth Program. Runners are encouraged to join for a meaningful experience and contribute to positive change within their community through participation.