The Eastern States 100 2026 is a world-class wilderness ultra trail running experience and the final leg of the Pennsylvania Triple Crown of mountain running. The Eastern States is a 103-mile single-loop trail race (98% single/double-track) in the Wilds region of the Allegheny Plateau in north-central Pennsylvania and an event that the Strambecco team considers to be one of the Best Trail Running Events in the Mid-Atlantic. Produced by the Eastern States Trail – Endurance Alliance, this difficult course of long climbs and technical terrain is a prestigious event that qualifies for both the Western States 100 and the UTMB World Series. Runners looking to push to their limits in the heat and humidity of the mid-Atlantic in August while covering 20K feet of elevation need to put this one on their bucket list.

The Eastern States 100 stands as a testament to the spirit of trail running, where only the hardiest of runners will find themselves completing this circumnavigation of Pine Creek. Known as the Pennsylvania scenic river that supplied the lumber that built America and the River of Pines to the Iroquois, Pine Creek is a captivating yet challenging companion throughout this grueling race. The event captures the essence of adventure, strength, and determination, making it a must-try for trail runners who seek to test their mettle against the elements. To qualify for this ultimate trail running adventure, runners must have completed a 50-mile trail race within 16 hours or complete a trail race longer than 50 miles within that race’s official cut-off time.

The course is a 103-mile single-loop that consists of 98% single and double-track trails, and runners will experience the thrill of navigating technical Rocksylvania terrain, enduring long and steep climbs, and facing the elements of mid-August weather. One of the race’s defining features is the formidable elevation gain, accumulating over 20,000 feet of climbing during the race. The route incorporates renowned trails like the Mid State Trail and the Black Forest Trail. As the course winds through the majestic Allegheny Plateau, runners will have the chance to take in the natural beauty of the Pine Creek watershed. Runners take off at 5:00 am and have 36 hours to complete the course; the official cutoff is 5:00 pm on Sunday.

Race central is Little Pine State Park, and post-race food will be available for purchase from Real Taste (Mexican) for crew and spectators. There will also be a Runners Only section with a wider selection of extra-special food just for participants and volunteers.

Other Pennsylvania Triple Crown events include the Hyner 50k in April and the Worlds End 100k in June, and all events sell out quickly. Complete all three races within a year before the cutoff time, and you have earned the bragging rights of a Triple Crowner. The Eastern States Trail – Endurance Alliance also produces the savage and unforgiving point-to-point Ironstone 100k in July.