Pine Creek Challenge
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Pine Creek Challenge
The Pine Creek Challenge is a trail running event in Wellsboro, PA, scheduled for September 12, 2026 and organized by Tyoga Running Club. It takes place along the Pine Creek Rail Trail and uses an out and back layout that includes the upper "Canyon" section of the trail.
The Pine Creek Rail Trail stretches 63 miles from Wellsboro Junction to Jersey Shore. The course runs through the Pine Creek Gorge, a National Natural Landmark that is nearly a mile wide and reaches about 1,450 feet deep at its deepest point. The gorge section used for the event is described as the Grand Canyon of the East.
The rail trail surface is fine crushed stone and is approximately 20 feet wide. The trail has minimal puddles and no motorized traffic. Participants may encounter cyclists, walkers, and horse drawn wagons. Wildlife in the area includes bald eagles, river otters, deer, foxes, and coyotes. The trail has a slight southward grade, losing about 900 feet over 63 miles, roughly a 2 percent grade.
Distances offered include:
- 100 Miler: Asaph to Blackwell and back twice, four canyon passes
- 100K: Out to Blackwell and return, one canyon pass
- 50 Miler: One trip to Blackwell and return
- Marathon: Out to Tiaghdaton and return
Organizers note there are no mandatory entry requirements but strongly recommend 100 mile entrants have previously completed 50 miles or more. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
