Keystone Trails Association Launches 100-Mile Challenge to Support Pennsylvania Hiking Trails

New fundraising campaign invites hikers to complete 100 miles on state trails while raising money for trail maintenance and preservation.

Apr. 4, 2026 at 11:26am

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The Keystone Trails Association is launching its annual 100-Mile Challenge, a statewide fundraising campaign that encourages hikers to complete 100 miles or more on eligible Pennsylvania hiking trails while raising money to support the association's mission of providing, protecting, preserving, and promoting recreational hiking trails across the Commonwealth.

Why it matters

The 100-Mile Challenge is a key fundraising initiative for the Keystone Trails Association, which relies on volunteer efforts and community support to maintain and improve Pennsylvania's extensive hiking trail network. By getting hikers involved, the campaign helps raise awareness and funds to ensure the state's trails remain accessible and well-cared for.

The details

The challenge runs from April 1 through October 31, 2026, and participants can log their progress and collect sponsorships through a new partnership with GoFundMe. Hikers who complete 100 miles and meet their fundraising goal by the October 31 deadline will be honored at KTA's annual Pennsylvania Hiking and Volunteer Award Celebration.

  • The 100-Mile Challenge runs from April 1 through October 31, 2026.
  • The award celebration for those who complete the challenge will be held on November 21, 2026.

The players

Keystone Trails Association

A Pennsylvania-based nonprofit dedicated to providing, protecting, preserving, and promoting recreational hiking trails and hiking opportunities across the Commonwealth.

Holly Smith

Executive Director of the Keystone Trails Association.

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What they’re saying

“Trail care teams leave tracks: trail blazes on trees, bridges over streams and wetlands, or downed trees that have been removed from the trail. These are the signs that trail care crews are on the ground keeping Pennsylvania's trails clear, accessible, and safe.”

— Holly Smith, Executive Director, Keystone Trails Association

What’s next

Those who finish 100 miles and meet the fundraising goal by October 31st will be honored at KTA's Pennsylvania Hiking and Volunteer Award Celebration on November 21, 2026.

The takeaway

The 100-Mile Challenge is a fun and impactful way for hikers to support the Keystone Trails Association's mission of maintaining and preserving Pennsylvania's extensive network of recreational hiking trails, ensuring they remain accessible and vibrant for generations to come.