Prepare for an unforgettable journey through "Rocksylvania" at the Eagleton Trail Challenge in Lock Haven, PA, on May 9, 2026. This esteemed event, presented by the Eastern States Trail-Endurance Alliance, offers a diverse range of distances, including a 10K, 25K, 47K, and a new, formidable 86-mile ultra, ensuring a challenge for every trail runner. The courses wind through the untamed beauty of Sproul State Forest, taking participants from the Susquehanna River to the Allegheny Plateau on scenic single-track trails that are rich in local history, from old mining villages to Prohibition-era bootleggers.

Runners can expect a varied terrain profile across all distances. The 10K and 25K courses feature challenging initial and final kilometers balanced by miles of fast, runnable sections, with approximately 1,200 ft and 2,200 ft of elevation gain respectively. The 47K extends this experience with around 4,000 ft of climbing, combining runnable forest trails with technical sections, supported by six well-stocked aid stations. For those seeking the ultimate test, the new 86-mile race is a "graduate-level" early-season ultra, covering the rugged Chuck Keiper Trail with relentless vertical gain of 15,653 feet and long, remote stretches between aid, demanding sharp focus and grit. Typical race day conditions in early May feature comfortable highs around 71F and lows near 46F, with a 20% chance of precipitation, providing an ideal spring racing environment.

Beyond the trails, the Eagleton Trail Challenge fosters a welcoming and vibrant atmosphere. Starting and finishing at the Sons of Italy Campground, the event is "Trail Sisters Approved," prioritizing equal opportunities and amenities for women, including women-specific swag and menstrual products at aid stations. Runners often praise the post-race feast, local music, and camaraderie, making it more than just a race—it's an adventure blending personal triumph with a memorable celebration in the heart of Pennsylvania's Wilds. Whether tackling your first trail race or pushing your limits on one of the East Coast's hardest ultras, the Eagleton Trail Challenge promises an honest, rewarding, and unforgettable experience.