HARRISBURG – Two preview hikes will be held prior to the Keystone Trails Association’s (KTA) sixth annual Susquehanna Super Hike & Ultra Trail Run.
These are hikes at a normal, brisk pace (not runs or speed hikes) to familiarize prospective participants with the course and its challenges.
The first preview hike is June 28. It will be at Pequea Creek Campground to the East side of the Norman Wood Bridge and is approximately 12 miles. Hikers should meet at Lock 12 parking lot on Route 372, just west of Norman Wood Bridge, at 9 a.m. Also, hikers should bring water and lunch.
The second preview hike is July 12. It will be at Lock 12 to Otter Creek Campground and is approximately 15 miles. Hikers should meet at Otter Creek Campground at 9 a.m. Also, hikers should bring water and lunch.
“The preview hikes provide a great opportunity for hikers and trail runners to learn more about the Super Hike course,” said KTA Executive Director Curt Ashenfelter.
“Newcomers to the event are naturally nervous about the steep hills, rocky terrain and deep ravines of the Susquehanna Super Hike, as it has proven too difficult for many hikers and trail runners to complete on time.”
“By participating in a preview hike, newcomers can traverse one side of the Susquehanna River in Lancaster or York counties to better understand the challenges they will face,” Ashenfelter said.
“For veteran Super Hikers, the reversal of the course will offer a new, hopefully less daunting challenge, and the additional half-hour to complete the course will offer extra time to those who need it most.” Advance registration and payment ($10 per hike) is required, and there is a 20-participant limit per preview hike. Both preview hikes are rain-or-shine.
On Sept. 6, the KTA will offer not just one, but two mileage options: a 23.4-mile “Super Hike” and 29.6-mile “Ultra Trail Run.” For the first time in Super Hike history, hikers and trail runners will be able to choose whichever option best suits their fitness level, ability and interest.
The registration fee is $90 for participants registering before Aug. 1, and includes snacks and beverages at several checkpoints along the route; admission to a celebratory picnic; a one-year membership to KTA, a 501(c)3 non-profit organization; a completion certificate; a commemorative tech shirt; and bus transportation from the finish line to the parking area at the start.
Registration will be capped at 600 participants; more than 250 individuals have already registered for the event.
For more information or to register for the Susquehanna Super Hike and Ultra Trail Run or a Preview Hike, visit www.kta-hike.org or contact KTA at 717-238-7017.