Our Stories
3 Reasons to Hike the Allegheny 100 Challenge
Pre-registration closes in just one week for this year’s Allegheny 100 hiking challenge.
Last year, 86 hikers challenged themselves to hike 25, 50, 75 or 100 miles of the North Country Trail in the Allegheny National Forest (ANF) in a 50 hour time period. The Allegheny 100 Challenge (A-100) is unsupported, so hikers are responsible for supplying their own food, drinks and equipment. Last year’s participants ranged from local hikers to people from Wyoming, Ontario, Michigan and North Carolina. Half of the hikers attempted the 100 mile trek. Many of the hikers reached their personal challenge of 25 to 75 miles. Everyone enjoyed the beauty of the Allegheny National Forest, the friendships formed on the trail and the hospitality of the area.
Don’t miss the opportunity to join the A-100 this year, June 12-14, 2015!
Why do the challenge?
1. Hiking in the Allegheny National Forest
Climb over rolling hills, pass through many beautiful stream valleys, and experience the lush green of the forest. For 2015, the hikers will travel north to south. The direction is changed every two years to give hikers the opportunity to complete all 100 miles of trail. Take a look at the map below which features photos from social media that people have shared from their time on the trail in the Allegheny National Forest:
2. Hiking with Friends
The camaraderie among participants is a highlight for this challenge. You have the opportunity to meet people and share trail stories and experiences. The nine hikers who completed the 100 challenge in 2014 sat together and shared thoughts and experiences at the end of their journey. Many of the 50 mile hikers did the same at their completion spot.
3.Hiking for your Fitness and Health
We’re learning more about how important getting out doors is for your health. Hiking is also good for your head. It can clear your mind, and the scenery in the Allegheny National Forest can induce moments of awe. Research is showing how awe can increase your well-being and even alter your sense of time. Feeling stressed out and like you just don’t have enough time in the day to get everything done? Go take a hike!
Pre-register to receive a membership to the North Country Trail Association, shuttle service to the start of the hike, and a T-shirt.
More information here, including links to the waiver, FAQ, and parking GPS coordinates.
Pre-registration for the A-100 ends May 15, 2015, or when 110 hikers have signed up. Cost will be $50 for non-members and $27 for members.
We look forward to hearing your stories at the finish of the A-100!