Great Appalachian Valley Race: Half Marathon, 10K and 5K
The Great Appalachian Valley Race offers a fast, flat course through scenic Pennsylvania countryside.
Race Date
Jul 18, 2026
Location
Shippensburg, PA
Quick facts
- Date
- Saturday, July 18, 2026
- Location
- Shippensburg, Pennsylvania
- Distance
- Half marathon (13.1 mi) + 6.2 Miles, 3.1 Miles, Combo 5K and 10K
- Course
- Loop Course
- Terrain
- Road
- USATF certified
- Not listed
- Finishers on record
- 230
Highlights
Good For
Atmosphere
Course
The Experience
The Great Appalachian Valley Race, held annually in Shippensburg, PA, invites runners to experience a fast, flat course winding through Pennsylvania's scenic countryside. This event, part of a growing series, typically sees around 123 finishers, with a focus on welcoming all participants, including walkers and families.
Since its inception, the race has been noted for its flat profile, making it an attractive option for those seeking a personal best. The course is described as a loop, offering a straightforward running experience through lush, rural landscapes. The event aims to provide a positive race-day atmosphere with post-race food and drink for all participants.
While the race is still establishing its tradition, with only a couple of editions on record, it offers a 4-hour time limit and special recognition for first-time half marathon finishers with a commemorative plaque. The organizers, elitefeats, are known for providing quality event production and noteworthy swag.
Race-provided description
Great Appalachian Valley Race: Half Marathon, 10K and 5K July 19, 2025 in Shippensburg, PA 17257 We are happy to announce that this event is part of our new Half Marathon Series. More information is available by clicking on the link below:
https://events.elitefeats.com/half
For any event questions, please email events@elitefeats.com. Thank you! Run through the beautiful countryside in Pennsylvania!Run on a fast, flat trail through the lush, scenic countryside.Walkers and families are welcome.There will be food and drink post-race.4 hour time limit for all events.
EARLY START INFO Here is the information going forward for all races regarding early starts:
- No early starts for 5K/10K - A single early start time 1 hour before the actual start time for Half (& Full if applicable) - No awards for any early starts
Also, anyone doing the early start should be trying to run a 15min mile or slower for the half or full. If they end up doing faster than 2:15 for the half they may not get a time. All first time half marathon finishers will receive a plaque that commemorates their first half or full marathon finish. The athletes will also receive their finisher’s medal. Go to registration after you finish and let them know you ran your first half.We are proud to announce that we have a non-binary registration option that has their own awards categories: overall and age groups.
SWAG Elite Feats is known for high-end, well-designed SWAG at our events. Entry fees will include: Beautiful Medal and LanyardT-shirtRunning ankle socks
2024 Medal
I Run for Fun socks
Thank you for your Service! All of our events feature a 10% discount on race entry for all service members and their family. Military discount link.
Contact events@elitefeats.com with any questions. We are always happy to answer any questions you have about our races. For additional information and race updates please check our website: https://elitefeats.com. Thank you for participating in Elite Feats Event! Image by Paul Brennan from Pixabay
Logistics
Race Day
Saturday, July 18, 2026
Start Time
8:00 AM
Giveaway
T-Shirt
Start Location
304 Britton Rd, Shippensburg, PA, 17257
Course Info
Course Type
Loop Course
Terrain
road
Scenery
Rural
Surface
Paved
Difficulty
Ultra-Flat
Net Drop/km
0 m (Flat)
Separation
0.0%
Also Offers
Quality Score
2 years running
~115 finishers a year
growing or steady
0% returning runners
6 timing sources · 8 photos
runners from 1 state
winner 1:29:37
typical high 87°F
Race Day Weather
5-year historical avgStart (Low)
68°
Afternoon (High)
87°
Hot conditions — adjust pace expectations, prioritize hydration
0.1"
Precipitation
9 mph
Wind
69%
Humidity
Historical Finish Times
How 230 finishers actually crossed the line across 2 years.
Most recent
2025
Total finishers
230
Median time
2:14:33
Latest turnout
123
States
1
Turnout by year
2022–2025
Hover the histogram to inspect specific finish times.
Race Photos
Frequently asked
When is the Great Appalachian Valley Race: Half Marathon, 10K and 5K?
The Great Appalachian Valley Race: Half Marathon, 10K and 5K is held on Saturday, July 18, 2026, starting at 8:00 AM.
Where does the Great Appalachian Valley Race: Half Marathon, 10K and 5K take place?
It takes place in Shippensburg, Pennsylvania.
What distances does the Great Appalachian Valley Race: Half Marathon, 10K and 5K offer?
The half marathon (13.1 miles), plus 6.2 Miles, 3.1 Miles, Combo 5K and 10K.
Is the Great Appalachian Valley Race: Half Marathon, 10K and 5K course flat and good for a PR?
The Great Appalachian Valley Race: Half Marathon, 10K and 5K is a ultra-flat, loop course course.
How many people run the Great Appalachian Valley Race: Half Marathon, 10K and 5K?
HalfRuns has finish records for 230 runners who have completed the Great Appalachian Valley Race: Half Marathon, 10K and 5K.
HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.
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