Check out this list of 2019 PA Wilds adventure trail races, perfect for beginners
- by LaKeshia Knarr
- February 11, 2019
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The rugged and rolling hills of the Pennsylvania Wilds are known for some of the best trails for hiking, backpacking and exploring.
Thousands descend on the region throughout the year to participate in adventurous trail races, which put hiking and running skills to the test as the participants scale mountains, leap streams, and attempt to cross the finish line as fast as possible.
Races range from shorter length obstacles to backcountry marathons, and some even take runners 100 miles.
Regardless of length, the scenes witnessed are something powerful in and of themselves. And when the finish line is crossed, no matter the runner’s standing, it’s something to be proud of.
Here is a list of some of the shorter adventure trail races taking place across the Pennsylvania Wilds in 2019, organized by some of the must-see landscapes in the region. These races, ranging from 3 to 9 miles in length, are perfect for beginners, and would also be a great fit for seasoned athletes looking for a fun way to get outdoors.
ALLEGHENY NATIONAL FOREST & SURROUNDS
Marilla Trail Race
Location: Bradford PA (McKean County)
Distance: 4 or 7 mile races; 4 mile hike
Date: October 12, 2019
Registration: $40 or $30 (by July 4); $25 (by October 8)
www.marillatrailrace.com/
ELK COUNTRY
Sinnemahone Ultra Trail Run
Location: Emporium PA (Cameron County)
Distance: 12K / 7.5 miles
Date: October 19, 2019
Registration: Opens March 1
www.sinnemahone.org/sinnemahone-12k
Sproul 10K, Hyner PA
Location: Hyner PA (Clinton County)
Distance: ~7 miles
Date: July 20, 2019
Registration: $30/person (Race is capped at 400 participants)
www.hikerun.com/56912.html
I-80 FRONTIER
Smith’s Knob Scramble
Location: Mountoursville PA (Lycoming County)
Distance: 8 miles
Date: June 15, 2019
Registration: $20, closes June 12 (Race is capped at 150 participants)
runsignup.com/Race/PA/SmithsKnobScramble
Spring Forward Trail Run
Location: Williamsport Country Club (Lycoming County)
Distance: 5K / 3.1 miles
Date: March 9, 2019
Registration: $30/person, closes March 6
runsignup.com/Race/PA/SpringForward
PINE CREEK VALLEY & THE PA GRAND CANYON
Camp Susque Trail Run
Location: Trout Run PA (Lycoming County)
Distance: 5K or 10K (3-6 miles)
Date: September 21, 2019
Registration: $25/person
www.susque.org/trail-run
Little Pine 5 Miler
Location: Waterville PA (Lycoming County)
Distance: 5 miles
Date: October 19, 2019
Registration: $30/person
ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=64993
To see some more adventurous (longer!) trail races in the Pennsylvania Wilds, visit pawilds.com/activity/adventure-trail-races/.
Even more adventure trail races from across the Commonwealth can be found at: runningintheusa.com/classic/list/pa/upcoming/trail-run/.
