Run for the Elk Marathon Race Festival

Low key late July marathon in Emporium, PA. The course is a 6.55 mile out-and-back loop on a rail trail comprised mainly of stone dust and fine gravel. Very modest and gradual elevation gain/loss. Aid stations with water and Gatorade were located about every two miles, and the race also allows for athletes to drop bottles/nutrition at locations on course. It's not a blazing fast course, but the surface is more forgiving and gentle than asphalt/concrete. This area of Pennsylvania can get hot/humid in late July. While the official race start is 7:30 am, the race director allows runners to start as early as 6:00 am to beat the worst of the heat/humidity. Parking was easy, and there was sufficient bathroom access at the start and on the course.