Eastern States 100

Eastern States is a 103-mile single-loop trail race (98% single/double-track) in the Wilds region of the Allegheny Plateau in north-central Pennsylvania. The race circumnavigates a portion of the stunning Pine Creek watershed that includes some of our longest climbs and most technical and remote terrain. It visits storied trails like the Mid State Trail and the Black Forest Trail, and accumulates over 20,000 feet of climbing in the process — all in the glorious heat and humidity of August. This is graduate-level trail running that will both test and fulfill you in so many ways.

Only the hardiest of runners will complete this circumnavigation of Pine Creek. A Pennsylvania Scenic River. The largest creek in the United States. The Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania. The river route that supplied the lumber that built America. The Iroquois called it Tiadaghton – the River of Pines. Or is it the Lost or Bewildered River? After 100 miles of multiple 900 – 1200 foot climbs and equally punishing descents, the second definition will seem appropriate.

Headquarters will be the beautiful Little Pine State Park. A true oasis in the middle of what will seem like endless nowhere to those who brave the trails. A lake for boating, fishing, or just cooling off after pushing your body to the max. Your choice of public or private campground accommodations within steps of the start-finish areas. Sites for tents or for large RVs. Rustic cabins, deluxe cabins (even several with Jacuzzis), or yurts. A nature center, playgrounds, a beach, a pool and a game room for family to enjoy while you are taxing your body. A convenience store for last minute items and hand dipped ice cream. A restaurant and bar to unwind and prefuel or refuel.

Runners will experience portions of some of the most scenic and most challenging trails in Pennsylvania. The Mid State Trail – Pennsylvania’s wildest footpath. The Black Forest Trail – the crown jewel of Pennsylvania’s long distance hiking trails featuring hills, rocks, and on average, a vista for every mile of trail. The West Rim Trail – a backpacker’s favorite for experiencing the Pine Creek Gorge. The Donut Hole Trail, the T Squared Trail, the Long Branch Trail, the Tiadaghton Trail, and several shorter connector trails will round out the 100 mile loop.

Ramsey at the south end is nothing more than a collection of houses and seasonal residences. You will cross Pine Creek on a former railroad trestle before climbing to the panoramic Ramsey Bend Vista. The north end is Blackwell. A tiny village with the historic Blackwell Hotel restaurant/bar and a small convenience and gift store. You will cross a unique one lane steel grate bridge that bends in the middle prior to climbing Gillespie Point – The Matterhorn of the Alleghenies – the only true peak in Pennsylvania.

In between is miles of hills, rocky hollows, diverse forest and endless views. Wolf Path, Cougar Run, Hemlock Mountain, Jerry Run Falls, Panther Run, and the Algerine Wild Area are just some of the local trails you’ll traverse. The course is full of single track, old logging roads and abandoned stone quarries. Deer, bear, bald eagles, and rattlesnakes may be seen. Other than the 17 well-stocked aid stations we will provide, the only civilization centers you will pass through are Ramsey, Blackwell, Hyner Run State Park and Slate Run – a tiny village featuring the Hotel Manor and Wolfe’s General Store.

This is NOT an entry-level race.  Because of the difficult and remote terrain, the potential heat and humidity, and the large amount of climbing, you must qualify to enter Eastern States. See the race website for qualifying details.

The Eastern States 100. Not for beginners.