The only 62+ mile trail footrace in the region, the Ironstone 100K, is back for its third year on July 13th and 14th, 2024. Hosted by the Eastern States Trail Endurance-Alliance, Inc. and Allegheny Trailrunners, Inc., this challenging point-to-point ultramarathon traverses the rugged and scenic trails of Southwest Central Pennsylvania.
Starting at Canoe Creek State Park in Blair County on July 13th at 2:00 PM, runners will navigate the Standing Stone, Mid State, and 9/11 Memorial/Lower Trails, culminating at Greenwood Furnace State Park in Huntingdon County. Last year's event drew participants from six countries and 15 states, with a 55% finish rate among those who began the race. This year, competitors from as far away as Australia will join the challenge.
A highlight of the Ironstone 100K is the ridge running atop Tussey Mountain, one of the longest ridges in the Appalachians. Other scenic features include old-growth pines at Alan Seeger Natural Area, the Lower Trail along the Juniata River, and historic limestone kilns at Canoe Creek State Park. Runners will experience breathtaking sunsets from Tussey Mountain vistas and sunrise from the mountains west of Bear Meadows Natural Area.
The race concludes with an award ceremony honorig the fastest male and female runners, along with all finishers. Celebrations include food from Smokey Pig, beer from Levity Brewing, and coffee from Standing Stone Coffee Company.
For more information, visit www.ironstone100K.com
The Ironstone 100K is organized by Eastern States Trail-Endurance Alliance (Eastern States 100) and Allegheny Trailrunners. The event is supported by the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, Mid State Trail Association, Standing Stone Trail Club, and other organizations. Benjamin Mazur, president of Allegheny Trailrunners, Inc., and vice-president of Eastern States Trail-Endurance Alliance, serves as the race director.
About Eastern States Trail-Endurance Alliance (ESTEA)
The ESTEA is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to promoting trail running and the responsible use of public lands in Pennsylvania. Its flagship event, the Eastern States 100, is a 103-mile single-loop trail race held in mid-August, renowned as one of the most challenging ultramarathons in the world.
About Allegheny Trailrunners
Allegheny Trailrunners Inc. is a volunteer-run 501(c)(3) non-profit organization for outdoor enthusiasts of all abilities. The club aims to foster a love for the outdoors, offering events like the Dirty Kiln in April and Rock N’ The Knob Trail Challenge in September. Allegheny Trailrunners is dedicated to preserving the region's natural beauty and heritage while promoting community involvement and personal growth through trail running.