The A-100 offers hikers the opportunity to push their limits by selecting distances of 100, 75, 50, or 25 miles to complete within 50 hours. The event spans roughly 100 miles of the NCNST within the ANF, from the New York border near Willow Bay to the forest’s southern edge about six miles southwest of Marienville.

The NCNST, one of just 11 National Scenic Trails in the United States, stretches nearly 5,000 miles from Vermont to North Dakota, making it over twice as long as the more widely known Appalachian Trail.

This year’s event drew 179 participants from the tri-state region as well as hikers from as far as North Carolina, New England, Michigan, and Wisconsin. The weekend’s weather delivered the usual A-100 challenge: a mix of rain, mud, and sunshine that added an extra layer of difficulty for those on the trail.

Despite the demanding conditions, hikers of all skill levels embraced the challenge.

Photo by Mike Toole Laird Fielding and Skye Hill celebrate their finish at the 50 mile mark.

“The new backpacker covering 25 miles for the first time is climbing the same mountain as the experienced hiker aiming for 100,” said Tina Toole ANF Chapter NCTA.

Of the 68 hikers who set out to complete 100 miles, only 16 finished. In the 75-mile group, five out of 16 completed the distance. Sixty-six hikers attempted the 50-mile trek, many of whom either finished or opted to stop there after initially pursuing longer distances. A total of 84 participants completed at least 50 miles. Among the 25-mile hikers, 50 successfully reached their goal.

First-time 100-mile finisher Kevan Kelleher summed up the experience, saying: “Really enjoyed the community aspect and sharing miles with lots of cool people. Definitely looking forward to coming back next year to experience the other direction!”

Deb Aunkst, who completed 50 miles for the first time with her husband and two friends, described the challenge as unforgettable.

“It was an experience none of us will forget. Although at the finish, I felt like this is something I couldn’t do again, now that I am home, I’m already thinking of next year!” she said, adding her appreciation for the volunteers who made the event possible.

Photograph by Tina Toole Pictured is Cindy Smith, Mike Toole and Chris Cole on Saturday, about 20 miles into their 50 mile hike.

Veteran participant Cecelia Peterson returned for her fifth year, calling the A-100 “Always a top highlight of the year!”

Cindy Smith, another 50-miler, praised the many volunteers who make the event and trail maintenance possible:

“It was definitely a challenge. It was also an experience I will never forget.”

The A-100 is not only a personal journey for each participant, but a valuable event for the region.

“Year after year, this event draws hikers and their traveling companions to the Allegheny National Forest area, spreading recognition about the unique place we are lucky enough to call home and attracting more tourists to the region,” Toole said.

The event is hosted by the Allegheny National Forest Chapter of the North Country Trail Association (NCTA). Sponsors for this year’s event included United Refining, Kwik Fill, Betts, Superior Tire, WCCBI, and Crescent Beer.

For more information about the Allegheny-100, the North Country Trail, or to join future guided hikes and trail maintenance events, visit: https://northcountrytrail.org/trail/pennsylvania/anf/.