Our Stories
2026 Allegheny 100 Challenge
By Shawn Weishaar, NCTA Allegheny National Forest Chapter
Each June, dedicated volunteers with the NCTA Allegheny National Forest Chapter in Northern Pennsylvania plan, organize, and host the Allegheny 100 Challenge. The A-100 is an unsupported endurance hiking challenge with no timekeepers, no aid stations, and no finish line other than the one hikers set for themselves. Participants choose to traverse 25, 50, 75 or 100 miles of the North Country Trail through Pennsylvania’s Allegheny National Forest (ANF). They are given 50 hours to complete their chosen mileage.
On a Friday evening in June, 185 hikers gathered at the southern trailhead of Pennsylvania’s Allegheny National Forest, ready to take on the 16th annual Allegheny 100 Hiking Challenge (A-100). As the clock struck 6:00 p.m., participants disappeared into the forest.
Individuals’ goals ranged from completing their first backpacking trips to covering the entire 100-mile route. The shared experience of overcoming obstacles, encouraging one another, and celebrating every finish is what continues to make this event so special.
Every year presents a different challenge and 2026 was no exception. One day before the event, a powerful storm brought down treetops, snapped tree trunks, and uprooted trees along portions of the trail.
Fortunately, this didn’t phase the Chapter. Their capable volunteer team includes sawyers who are certified and maintainers who are trained.
“Someone was even out with a chainsaw clearing fresh blowdowns on Saturday morning,” said participant Walker Ziewitz. “That’s dedication!”
The trail was clear for the event, but another storm blew in Sunday evening, bringing additional wind damage and creating even more trail cleanup. Again, the volunteers laced up their boots, donned their safety gear, and headed back out.
This caliber of training and preparation, alongside gifts and membership, is exactly what this event’s registration fees help fund. Your support ensures that these volunteers are equipped for the challenge of organizing and facilitating events that get you on the trail, from simple Chapter hikes to more complex occasions such as A-100.
“Great weekend,” said participant Dennis Rakin. “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.”
By the end of the event, despite the heat and unpredictable weather, 95% of the participants completed at least 25 miles.
- 18 completed all 100 miles
- 7 completed 75 miles
- 83 completed 50 miles
- 68 completed 25 miles
But more than the miles themselves, the A-100 continues to create a community. Many return year after year to challenge themselves, reconnect with friends, and experience the beauty of the Pennsylvania Wilds. Whether participants reached their intended goal or discovered a new one along the way, every mile traveled represented determination, perseverance, and a personal achievement worth celebrating.
The Allegheny National Forest Chapter extends its sincere appreciation to every participant, volunteer, and supporter who helped make this year’s A-100 another memorable weekend on the North Country National Scenic Trail. We look forward to welcoming everyone back next year!
The 2027 A-100 will be held June 11-13 and participants will travel south to north. Learn more at northcountrytrail.org/a-100.
