Prepare for a spooktacular running experience at The Haunted Forest Marathon, Half Marathon, and 5K, set for October 25, 2026, in the charming town of Canal Fulton, OH. This famously "fast, flat, and fun" event is a treat for runners seeking a personal best or a Boston Marathon qualifying time, with the full marathon boasting a minimal 57-59 feet of elevation gain and the half marathon just 40 feet. The course primarily follows the scenic Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail, a mix of hard-packed crushed limestone and blacktop, winding through picturesque fall foliage. Typical race day conditions, with highs around 60F and lows near 41F and a 15% chance of precipitation, create an ideal environment for optimal performance.

What truly sets The Haunted Forest Marathon apart is its immersive and family-friendly Halloween theme. Expect ghostly displays, illuminated pathways, and theatrical decor along the course, transforming your run into an eerie yet exhilarating adventure. Aid stations, strategically placed approximately every two miles, will keep you fueled with water, Gatorade, and GU gels, often staffed by volunteers in festive costumes. Runners rave about the supportive atmosphere and the unique opportunity to "Smash the PR Pumpkin" at the finish line if you achieve a personal record. Marathoners who achieve a Boston Qualifying time are celebrated with an extra medal for their accomplishment.

Starting in downtown Canal Fulton and finishing at St. Helena Heritage Park, this race weekend also features a race expo held in a family-friendly haunted house, further enhancing the festive spirit. The Haunted Forest Marathon is not just a race; it's a celebrated fall tradition, known for its smooth course and high percentage of Boston Qualifiers, making it a hidden gem for runners aiming for speed and a memorable Halloween-themed challenge.