June 9-11: Allegheny 100 Hiking Challenge (A-100)

The Allegheny National Forest Chapter of the North Country Trail Association announces the 8th Annual Allegheny 100 Hiking Challenge!

On June 9th - 11th, 2017, Come join us for this adventure through the beautiful scenery of the Allegheny National Forest.
 
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. 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.
For the 2017 challenge, hikers will travel north to south, from the Rt 346 trailhead, near Willow Bay to the Rt 66 trailhead, between Marienville and Vowinckel. A shuttle is offered to transport hikers from their finish point (where they’ve parked) to the joint starting point at the Rt 346 trailhead.
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, March 6 and continues to May 12, or when 150 hikers have signed up. Cost is $55 for non-members and $32 for members.
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In 2016, a record number of 100 milers, 25, completed their challenge. Perfect weather was a big factor. Four hikers completed 75 miles. Fifty-two hikers reached 50 miles, and another 19 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.
 
For more information or to register, visit the NCTA website at  https://northcountrytrail.org/get-involved/special-events/allegheny-100-hiking-challenge/ , the ANF Chapter Facebook page www.facebook.com/ANFChapterNCT/  or email anf@northcountrytrail.org.

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