The Keystone Trails Association will host their 16th KTA Trail Challenge 25K Run/Hike on Saturday, September 7 within Susquehannock State Park and along the Conestoga Trail in Lancaster County.

"The Trail Challenge is an important event in the annual life of Keystone Trails Association, giving runners and hikers a challenging, scenic, and memorable experience on an exceptional route," says Brook Lenker, Executive Director of KTA. " We greatly value the time and effort of the hundreds of participants as well as the scores of volunteers who make the Trail Challenge possible. The funds raised at the event help our organization fulfill its mission in service of hiking and hiking trails across Pennsylvania."  

Whether you're an experienced trail runner or a keen hiker, the KTA 25K Trail Challenge is the perfect opportunity to push yourself to the limit.

With steep climbs, rocky terrain, fantastic vistas, and scenic forest hollows, the course is an excellent challenge for those up for it.

The challenge is open to both trail runners and hikers, and the aim is to complete the strenuous course before the evening finish cutoff.

“Let's talk trash.  Join Keystone Trails Association in an effort to make Trail Challenge as trash-free as possible,” shares Kate Prisby, KTA Manager of Events and Programs. “Take the Trashless Trail Challenge Pledge and receive one-of-a-kind Trail Challenge memorabilia.  Pledgees commit to bringing from home: a reusable hydration container to use on course and reusable picnic-ware for the finish line banquet (plate, cup, utensils, and napkin).  To receive the award for being a Trashless Trail Challenge participant, simply show off your reusable picnic ware to event personnel as you go through the meal line.”

The 2024 25K Trail Challenge will follow the route introduced last year from north to south.

The race begins at Pequea Creek Campground, and participants will face a challenging ascent to the Pinnacle Overlook before descending into Kelly's Run and ultimately crossing the finish line at Susquehannock State Park.

Picnic and exhibitor areas will be set up at the second pavilion in the park.

“We pride ourselves on providing hiking opportunities that help train hikers in best practices. The KTA Trail Challenge is a chance for hikers to test their skills!” says Lenker. “ For many participants, the KTA Trail Challenge is the ultimate test of physical fitness and mental toughness.”

Runners and hikers who complete the KTA Trail Challenge and the Central Pennsylvania Conservancy’s Ironmaster's Challenge will receive a unique, collaborative Iron Mettle Medal.

To register and learn more, visit KTA’s Trail Challenge 25K Run/Hike webpage.

Questions about KTA’s Trail Challenge? Contact Kate Prisby, KTA Manager of Events and Programs at prisby@kta-hike.org. 

KTA thanks this year’s Trail Challenge sponsors for their support: Brookfield Renewable and Pennsylvania American Water, as well as the assistance of numerous local partners.

The Keystone Trails Association offers a robust trail care program with volunteer opportunities available on PA trails, serves as the statewide voice of the hiking trail community and trail advocate in PA’s capital, and offers a wealth of hiking opportunities throughout the year that both long-time hikers and the next generation of hikers can enjoy together.

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[Posted: July 10, 2024]

7/15/2024