THE NCTA A-100 HIKING CHALLENGE 2016

Guest article via The Allegheny National Forest Chapter of the North Country Trail Association

The A-100 Hiking Challenge

The Allegheny National Forest Chapter of the North Country Trail Association will hold the seventh annual Allegheny 100 Hiking Challenge (A-100) on June 10^th - 12^th, 2016.

[1238n0001: Hikers rest at Hammond Run waterfall.]

This event helps promote awareness of the North Country National Scenic Trail and the Allegheny National Forest and it brings many visitors to the surrounding communities.

The A-100 is an endurance challenge met through unsupported hiking. It is not a race, but an individual challenge of stamina, determination and resilience. Being an unsupported hike, there are no first aid or water stations. Hikers are responsible for supplying their own food, drinks and equipment. Participants must recognize that cell phone reception is very spotty along the length of the trail.

The adventure covers a 100-mile stretch of the North Country National Scenic Trail in the Allegheny National Forest. Hikers will climb over rolling hills and pass through many beautiful stream valleys. For 2016, hikers will travel south to north. The direction is changed routinely to give hikers the opportunity to complete all 100 miles of trail.

[50-7: Hikers celebrating their 50 mile finish with a burger!]

The A-100 challenges hikers to traverse 100 miles, 75 miles, 50 miles or 25 miles in a fifty hour time period. This challenge is for anyone, regardless of skill level, who wants to test him or herself against the trail. Everyone needs to “hike their own hike”, moving at their own pace and resting when necessary.

The challenge will extend from the PA Route 66 trailhead, between Marienville and Vowinckel, PA to the PA Route 346 trailhead, near Willow Bay. Those who pre-register will receive a membership in the North Country Trail Association, shuttle service to the start of the hike and a T-shirt. Pre-registration begins on Monday, February 29 and continues to May 13, or when 110 hikers have signed up. Cost is $50 for non-members and $27 for members. Hikers may register the day of the event.

In 2015, six hikers made it to the 100 mile mark, and three hikers completed 75 miles. Forty hikers reached 50 miles, and another 27 completed at least 25 miles. Many met their personal challenge and many more vowed to be back next year to attempt to achieve their goals after learning so much out on the trail. Everyone enjoyed the beauty of the Allegheny National Forest, the friendships formed on the trail and the hospitality of the area.

[0993b: The first 100 mile finisher, Nathan Boyle, completed the hike in under 42 hours!]

For more information or to register, visit the NCTA website at https://northcountrytrail.org/get-involved/special-events/allegheny-100-hiking-challenge/ or email anf@northcountrytrail.org