Mount Nittany Marathon 2026

The Mount Nittany Marathon takes place in State College, Pennsylvania, scheduled for early September. The race is named for Mount Nittany, the ridge overlooking the town and a primary landmark in Centre County, with Penn State University located at its base. The specific road course details are not widely available, but the name holds significant local importance. Penn State's Nittany Lion athletic teams and mascot are derived from the mountain's name. The term “Nittany” originates from an Algonquian word, frequently translated as “single mountain,” and also noted to mean “barrier against the wind.” Mount Nittany was almost sold for timber rights until alumni connected with Penn State raised funds for its purchase. The Mount Nittany Conservancy has since acquired hundreds of protected acres surrounding the mountain.