NEPA's Best Races and Walks Await
Get ready to lace up your sneakers because this summer is bringing a wave of races and walks. Fitness enthusiasts of all levels can get some fresh air while supporting great causes. From relaxed 5Ks to intense marathons, there’s an event to suit every stride and pace.
Whether you’re a seasoned runner looking to set a new personal best or a casual walker out to enjoy the sunshine and scenic views, these races and walks offer the perfect opportunity to stay active and support local organizations. Lace up, get moving, and join in on the summer fun!
June 8 – Scranton, PA
Join Queer NEPA for the 4th Annual Stride for Pride 5K Run in partnership with In This Together NEPA. They will be running at the beautiful Lackawanna River Heritage Trail on Olive Street in Scranton, PA.
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June 8 – Drums, PA
Join the Community Services for Sight and Honey Hole Winery on June 8th to Run For The Glasses! Take your pick out of a half marathon, 10K, 5K, and a 5K Dog Jog. Proceeds go toward services for visually impaired people in our communities.
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June 12 – Bloomsburg, PA
Join the Bloomsburg Food Cupboard for their 2nd annual 5K. Running or walking for fun or competition, handmade awards, food trucks, wine and beer tasting, yard games and trivia will offer something for everyone!
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June 15 – Jim Thorpe, PA
A fun 5K race to benefit a local wildlife rescue and education center. The course is along the D&L Heritage Corridor Trail. It is open, flat, out-and-back, with an orange cone at the turn-around.
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June 22 – Kingston, PA
Take part in the most vibrant, energetic, and unforgettable 5K of the year! Run, walk, or dance your way through 5 kilometers of pure color excitement. At every kilometer mark, you’ll be doused in a different hue, transforming you into a moving mural.
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June 30 – Moosic, PA
Tackle the slopes of Montage Mountain in a 5k test of your toughness at the first of two races in the Black Diamond Running Series! All registered participants will receive free admission to the waterpark after the race and are eligible to purchase up to 4 additional water park tickets for family for just $15 each.
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July 4 – Wilkes-Barre, PA
Bernie’s Run is a valued tradition celebrating our nation’s birthday since 1984. The Run/Walk start time is at 8:30am and the free Kids Fun Run start time is 9:15am. The Kids Fun Run is open to ages 2-10.
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July 13 – Stroudsburg, PA
Run through the Quiet Valley Living Historical Farm property. Course has varying surfaces including grass, dirt, gravel and paved roads. Race day registration and bib pickup will begin at 7:30am.
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July 13 – Palmerton, PA
Run in and out of dense forests as you scale the rugged hill designed to test even elites. If you’re strong and determined enough, you’ll be rewarded with amazing views of the Poconos from the top – and then your challenging descent begins. Put yourself to the test at this “must race” event.
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July 20 – Roaring Brook Twp., PA
Run or walk this 5K for a cause through scenic Roaring Brook Twp. and Elmhurst. The route is both kid and dog friendly, so don’t leave anyone behind. You’ll be sent home with goodies from local businesses and 5K sponsors.
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July 27 – Hunlock Creek, PA
The LYM Team is hosting their second annual 5k Run/Walk this summer! Taking place on the Susquehanna Warrior trail. This flat and fast course is perfect for any runner to hit a PR. All proceeds will be donated to The Susquehanna Warrior Trail and local non-profits.
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July 28 – Moosic, PA
Don’t miss The Iron Horse 8K, which is race #2 in the Black Diamond Running Series at Montage Mountain! Take on some more length and some extra hills at Montage Mountain for round two of this awesome trail running lineup.
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August 4 – Kingston, PA
Join the JCC in the 16th annual Walk/Run in memory of Pauly Friedman. Pauly Friedman was a Board Member at Family Service Association of NEPA (FSA). Proceeds raised from this event will benefit PA 211 NE/Help Line.
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August 10 – Shickshinny, PA
The Shimmy in Shickshinny follows the hard-packed Susquehanna Warrior Trail as it runs along the west bank of the Susquehanna River in Luzerne County, PA. The out-and-back route has a total elevation gain/loss of 11 feet and 90% of the trail is shaded.
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August 17 – Hawley, PA
Join the Tunnels to Towers Foundation in their annual 5K. The foundation supports our nation’s fallen and catastrophically injured first responders, military heroes, and their families by providing them with homes and other services.
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August 17 – Madison Twp., PA
The Mad Mudder is an obstacle/confidence course filled with mud, water and fun! The Mad Mudder is open to everyone, but they recommend children be at least 10 years of age. All proceeds will benefit the Madisonville Fire Dept. for building and truck maintenance, training, equipment, etc.
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August 24 – Scranton, PA
Don’t miss the 3rd annual Scranton 4 Ukraine 5K Run and 1 Mile Fun Walk at the Lackawanna River Heritage Trail. Registration starts at 7am, and the race starts at 9am.
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August 25 – Harvey’s Lake, PA
The Back Mountain Triathlon held at Harveys Lake carries on the storied tradition of the former Wilkes Barre Triathlon, bringing Olympic and Sprint distance racing back to the lake community. Race options include an Olympic or Sprint distance triathlon for individuals, or an Aquabike or Relay option as well.
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August 31 – Montrose, PA
The rugged trail race you know and love is back for its 12th year. Participants can choose from a 5K, 10K or 50K option. All courses are technical trails through a beautiful old-growth forest. This race is to benefit the Friends of Salt Springs Park to help maintain and conserve the beautiful trails.
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September 1 – Pittston, PA
This 10-mile road race stretches from Pittston to Wilkes-Barre, featuring some of the Valley’s most iconic views along the way. This course is fun and approachable for runners of all levels. Runners, walkers, and handcyclists are welcome!
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