When is Chernisky Ghost Town Trail-a-thon?

Chernisky Ghost Town Trail-a-thon takes place on Oct 3, 2026. That's in 6 months.

Where is Chernisky Ghost Town Trail-a-thon located?

Chernisky Ghost Town Trail-a-thon is held in Ebensburg, Pennsylvania, United States.

What distances are available at Chernisky Ghost Town Trail-a-thon?

Chernisky Ghost Town Trail-a-thon offers the following distances: 26.2M, 15M, 5K.

What is the typical weather for Chernisky Ghost Town Trail-a-thon?

Based on historical data, you can expect temperatures between 44°F and 66°F on race day. There's approximately a 17% chance of precipitation.

Chernisky Ghost Town Trail-a-thon (5K-26.2M) - Oct 3, 2026 | Ebensburg, PA

Embark on an unforgettable trail running adventure at the 6th annual Chernisky Ghost Town Trail-a-thon on October 3, 2026, in Ebensburg, PA. This celebrated event, a highlight of the Cambria County Trails Series, invites runners to experience the renowned Ghost Town Trail, which was named Pennsylvania's 2020 Trail of the Year and ranked among the top hiking trails in the U.S.. Choose your challenge from a full Marathon (26.2M), a demanding 15M, or a scenic 5K, all culminating at the welcoming finish line in Duman Lake County Park. Runners can expect typical race day conditions with highs around 66F and lows around 44F, and only a 17% chance of precipitation, providing ideal weather for hitting the trails.

The course itself is a journey through natural beauty and rich history. Marathoners begin in Ebensburg, traversing approximately 23 miles of the crushed gravel rail trail system, including recent extensions, while the 15-miler starts in Nanty Glo. The 5K offers an out-and-back route from Duman Lake County Park, featuring crushed gravel with some pavement and minor inclines, suitable for all abilities. The Ghost Town Trail, once a railroad corridor connecting long-abandoned coal-mining towns, offers breathtaking scenery of the Blacklick Creek valley, complete with mountain streams, vibrant rhododendrons, and cool woodlands, interspersed with historical remnants like iron furnaces and coal-loading tipples.

Support is ample along the route, with four full aid stations providing water, Gatorade, and fruit, complemented by three water-only stops on the marathon course, with energy gels included in race packets. ADA-compliant restrooms are conveniently located at various aid stations. Beyond the challenging distances, the Chernisky Ghost Town Trail-a-thon stands out for its inclusivity, offering an Athletes with Disabilities (AWD) division in the 5K and even a "Couch Potato 0.0K" for those seeking a less strenuous way to participate. All pre-registered participants receive a commemorative long-sleeve shirt, and finishers earn a medal, with a post-race celebration featuring music and a meal at Duman Lake County Park. Proceeds from the event support the enhancement of Cambria County Trails and local firefighter training.