The Allegheny National Forest Chapter of the North Country Trail Association will hold the annual Allegheny 100 Hiking Challenge (A-100) from June 7 to 9 this year. Mark your calendars now.

Registration for the A-100 for the event takes place from noon on March 8 to noon March 15 online at https://northcountrytrail.org/a-100/. Registration fills up fast. The cost to participate is $80, which is non-refundable. Hikers will park at their finish location and get a shuttle to the start.

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 hemlock-lined stream valleys. This year, hikers will start in the north at the Pennsylvania State Route 346 Willow Bay trailhead, and travel south toward the State Route 66 trailhead, between Marienville and Vowinckel.

Organizers remind those considering the challenge, “Everyone needs to ‘hike their own hike,’ move at their own pace and rest when necessary.”

The A-100 is an unsupported hike, thus no first aid or water stations. Participants are responsible for supplying their own food, drinks and equipment. Cell phone reception is spotty at best along the length of the trail.

The A-100 is not a race, but an individual challenge of stamina, determination and resilience. Hikers can choose to traverse 100 miles, 75 miles, 50 miles or 25 miles in a 50 hour time period. This challenge is for anyone, regardless of skill level, who wants to test themselves against the trail.

More details and FAQs can be found on the Allegheny 100 Challenge event webpage at https://northcountrytrail.org/a-100/.