The Raven

ABOUT THE RACE

The Raven Half Marathon is a true central Pennsylvania trail test. Set deep in the Seven Mountains, this course starts and finishes at Poe Valley State Park and wastes no time reminding you why PA trail running has a reputation. Expect rugged singletrack, punchy climbs, runnable doubletrack, cool stream crossings, overlooks, and long stretches of quiet forest broken only by your breathing and the sound of shoes on dirt. The newly modified course is challenging, honest, and rewarding . This is not a road race in the woods. It’s a mountain half built for runners who want to work and earn the finish. Best suited for experienced trail runners , this race is also hiker-friendly for those who train and respect the terrain. If you’re looking for an easy day out, this isn’t it.

WHAT MAKES THIS RACE SPECIAL

Real PA mountain trails — technical, remote, scenic, and steep! Challenging but fair — runnable where it should be, but tough where it counts Beautiful State Park and Forest with truly remote feeling trails and landscapes Delicious Kettle-served Ham and Bean Soup after-party!!! + a vegetarian option :) A race with purpose — your miles and participation DIRECTLY support scholarships, local trails, and more!

RACE DETAILS

Distances: Trail Half Marathon and Trail 10K Terrain: Rugged climbs, winding singletrack, stream crossings, sand (yes, really,) and a few forest road connectors Difficulty: Intermediate to Advanced (or for Beginners looking for a REAL challenge) Start / Finish: Poe Valley State Park Field Limit: 200 participants

REGISTRATION

Registration Opens: January 19, 2026 Registration Closes: September 20, 2026 Swag Deadline: Register by end of day September 7 to receive official Raven swag. The Raven is intentionally capped. Spots go fast, swag is limited, and prices may increase. If this race is on your list, don’t wait.

POLICIES

No refunds No bib transfers No bandits Pregnancy & Postpartum Deferral: If you become pregnant after registering, or have recently had a baby and don’t feel ready to race, we’ll defer your entry to the following year with advance notice. Event Cancellation: If the race cannot be held, all registered runners will be offered a deferral.

WHY WE DO THIS

The Raven exists for more than finish times and elevation charts. Proceeds fund college scholarships for local high school runners , helping the next generation of athletes chase bigger goals. This is made possible through the Juniata Valley Striders running club, who's been doing this since 1980. Our goal with The Raven is to increase the scholarship fund to offer additional opportunities. As the Raven grows, the scholarship grows with it. The race also supports local trail systems, public lands, and the volunteers who keep these mountains open, safe, and runnable. Run hard. Give back. Leave something better behind.

Pets

For safety reasons, no pets are permitted on the course or trails during the event.