The Jim Thorpe Area Running Festival presented by Lehigh Valley Health Network

Get ready to experience one of the Northeast's most picturesque and fastest courses at The Jim Thorpe Area Running Festival, presented by Lehigh Valley Health Network, on April 25, 2026. Nestled in the stunning mountain town of Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania, often called the "Switzerland of America" for its natural beauty, this event offers a range of distances including a 39.3M, 26.2M, 13.1M, and 7M, catering to all levels of runners. Typical race day conditions in late April offer comfortable highs around 66°F and lows around 42°F, with a modest 16% chance of precipitation, providing an ideal climate for a strong performance.

The marathon boasts a significant reputation as a premier Boston Qualifier, recognized as the 1st fastest marathon course in Pennsylvania and among the fastest on the East Coast. Runners will revel in a mostly downhill, point-to-point course with a steady 0.5-1% downgrade nearly the entire way, resulting in a 700-foot net downhill that helps achieve those coveted personal bests without a BQ time penalty. The course predominantly follows a smooth, hard-packed gravel rail-trail through the breathtaking Lehigh Gorge State Park, winding alongside the Lehigh River amidst lush greenery and beautiful scenery. The half marathon offers a flat and fast out-and-back experience on the same gorgeous rail-trail, starting and finishing at the Jim Thorpe Train Station.

What truly sets this festival apart is the unique opportunity for full marathon (8 am wave) and 7-mile runners to embark on a scenic train ride from Jim Thorpe to their respective starting lines, transforming the journey into an integral part of the race day adventure. Aid stations are plentiful, positioned approximately every two miles and offering water and electrolytes, though runners should note that bathroom facilities can be sparse along the course. The finish line for all distances is conveniently located in the municipal lot next to the historic Jim Thorpe Train Station. Beyond the race, runners can enjoy the charm of Jim Thorpe itself, a quaint town with shops and dining perfect for post-race exploration. Each participant will also receive a unique finisher's medal and complimentary downloadable professional photographs, ensuring lasting memories of this unforgettable running experience.