The NCTA designed the Hike 100 Challenge to help you meet your goals: Whether you want to explore the outdoors more, spend time with your family, make new trail friends, find solitude, try backpacking, or see how far you can wander, Hike 100 is the motivation you need.
The main objective is to complete 100 miles on the North Country Trail on foot within the calendar year. Visit the same one mile 100 times over or explore 100 unique miles. Hike, walk, backpack, snowshoe, or cross-country ski. Make the journey yours.
We offer plenty of resources to help you succeed: Free maps, Chapter group hikes, mileage logs, and much more – including amazing support from fellow trail users through the North Country Trail Community Facebook group.
FAQ
Where can I hike to earn my Hike 100 Challenge miles?
As long as you’re on official North Country Trail, you can count the mileage. Spur trails do not count, but be aware the NCT shares its pathway with other trails of different names, such as the Finger Lakes Trail in New York, the Superior Hiking Trail in Minnesota, or local-level trails. Double check your route on our
online map.
How much time do I have?
Each Hike 100 Challenge spans from January 1 until December 31.
How do I log my miles?
However you like. The NCTA does not need to see your mileage log, even when you finish. When you sign up for Hike 100, you will receive an email with a link to a toolkit, which includes a printable mileage log.
Do my 100 miles have to be unique?
No. You may hike the same one mile 100 times over. As long as you’re using the trail on foot, the mileage you bank counts toward the Challenge.
What does the 2026 patch look like?
Do I have to sign up to receive the patch and certificate?
No, but you will miss out on the mileage tracking toolkit, exclusive communications, and more. (You must submit a completion form to receive the patch and certificate.)
Do I have to be an NCTA member or volunteer to participate?
No, but the NCTA is able to provide this program to you for free thanks to the generosity of this trail community.
Your support makes a huge difference.
Can children earn patches?
Yes. There is no age restriction on Hike 100. Signing up children is not necessary. For a child to receive a finisher patch and certificate though, an individual completion form must be submitted on their behalf.
Can pets earn patches?
We offer collar tags for our furry finishers. Colors vary. Pets do not need to be signed up for Hike 100, but when you (the human) submit a completion form, there is an option for pet recognition.
Can I get more patches if I hike 100+ miles?
Patches are limited to one per person per year. Learn more about a different (and volunteer-led) long-distance hiker recognition program at
explorenct.info/NoCoLo/index.htm.
What should I do if I lose my patch or if it doesn't arrives in the mail?
You may request a replacement by emailing hq@northcountrytrail.org. Please do not fill out another completion form, and allow up to six weeks for processing and delivery.
The NCTA is able to ship patches to U.S. addresses only. If you are an international participant/finisher, we recommend you have stateside family or friends claim your patch, and then coordinate mailing it on to you.
