Participants choose to traverse 25, 50, 75 or 100 miles of the North Country Trail (NCT) through Pennsylvania’s Allegheny National Forest (ANF). They are given 50 hours to complete their chosen mileage. The Trail stretches from the New York border north of Willow Bay to the ANF border about 6 miles southwest of Marienville. The whole North Country National Scenic Trail (NCNST) is one of only 11 National Scenic Trails. It spans almost 5,000 miles from Vermont to North Dakota. That’s more than twice the distance of its more famous cousin, the Appalachian National Scenic Trail.

This year’s A-100 was held June 12-14. One hundred eighty-five hikers participated. Most were from the tri-state area, but they also arrived from locations on the East Coast south to Georgia, the mid-west and California.

They all eagerly awaited the start of the event and the chance to get into the dense and rugged ANF. At 6 p.m., they took off into the forest aiming for Chappel Bay or Henrys Mill or the southern end of the forest. They were challenged by the roots and rocks on the trail, the drastic elevation changes, the hot temperatures and the gusty, Sunday winds.

Despite the conditions, many hikers reached their goal. This year 18 hikers were able to finish the whole 100 miles. Twelve completed 75 miles, 83 hikers covered 50 miles and 68 hikers completed 25. We celebrate and congratulate the achievements of ALL the Allegheny 100 participants. The new backpacker that attempts to cover 25 miles for the first time is climbing the same difficult mountain as the experienced trail runner that challenges themselves to 100 miles. Each participant battled the same elements, learning from fellow hikers on the way and many will return to test themselves again, putting their experience and newfound knowledge to work.

Photo by Tina Toole Adam Miller finishes the 100 miles with his dog.

Bridget Walker hiked part of the distance with another group who helped her when she needed support.

“Always such an incredible adventure!!!”, she exclaimed.

Walker Ziewitz shared, “The A-100 is truly a special event. Thank you to all the volunteers who maintain the trail and make it happen. Someone was even out with a chainsaw clearing fresh blowdowns on Saturday morning — that’s dedication!”

Dennis Rakin echoed Walter, saying, “Great weekend again. Congratulations to all the finishers and thank you to the volunteers and trail crew. The trail was amazing, the burgers were delicious and the trail magic was much appreciated. Thanks for all the work and making another amazing, friendly, challenging weekend!”

Pat Hartzell summed it up with, “What a fantastic adventure I had! Family was present, met up with old friends, and visited my favorite shelter.”

Photo by Tina Toole An A-100 participant hikes through Tracy Ridge at dusk.

The Allegheny National Forest Chapter leadership thanks all its volunteers and event sponsors: United Refining, Kwik Fill, Betts Industries, Country Fair, Tops, and Lost in the Woods Brewery. Funds raised through the A-100 entry fees and sponsorships go back into upkeep of the trail and structures like shelters and bridges. Learn more about the event at northcountrytrail.org/a-100.