Race Overview
The Eastern States 100 mile endurance run is a 103-mile single-loop ultramarathon held annually in Pennsylvania’s Allegheny Plateau region, established in 2014. The course features over 20,000 feet of elevation gain and loss across technical rocky terrain, with 98% single and double track through remote wilderness areas.
What makes Eastern States 100 mile endurance rununique is its challenging single-loop design that circumnavigates the Pine Creek Gorge watershed, starting and finishing at Little Pine State Park. Runners face nearly continuous climbs and descents through some of Pennsylvania’s most rugged terrain, including sections of the Mid State Trail and Black Forest Trail.
The race attracts experienced ultrarunners seeking one of the most demanding tests on the East Coast. Course conditions feature relentless rocky footing, technical trail navigation, and challenging weather including heat and humidity. With approximately a 58% finish rate and 36-hour time limit, Eastern States has earned its reputation as a proving ground for serious mountain ultrarunners.
How to Qualify & Enter
Registration for Eastern States 100 typically opens in winter (usually January) and may utilize a lottery system depending on demand. The race field is limited to approximately 300 participants.
While there are no published qualification standards, strong ultramarathon and technical trail running experience is highly recommended due to the challenging nature of the course. Participants must be 18 years or older on race day.
Registration is available through easternstates100.com or RunSignup. Given the race’s reputation and limited field size, interested runners should register early when registration opens.
Course Layout
The Eastern States 100 follows a single-loop course running clockwise from Little Pine State Park. The route travels west to Hyner Run State Park, north to Blackwell, then south and southeast back to the start/finish. The course visits portions of both the Mid State Trail and Black Forest Trail, featuring nearly continuous climbs and descents with minimal pavement sections.
Field Size
• Total Field: ~300 runners
• Finish Rate: ~58%
• Time Cutoff: 36 hours
• Average Finishing Time: [searching]
Cutoffs & Rules
The race operates under a strict 36-hour time limit with specific cutoffs at each aid station. Cutoff times represent DEPARTURE deadlines, not arrival times – you must check out by the specified time! Pacers are allowed for the final ~46 miles, with one pacer at a time. Runners must stay on course, avoid littering, keep their bib visible, and notify aid stations if dropping. Be prepared for challenging weather conditions and remote travel requirements.
Aid Stations
• Total: 17 full aid stations + 5 water-only stations (“WS”)
• Key Full Stations: Ramsey (9mi), Hyner Run (19mi), Lower Pine (24mi), Dry Run (33mi), Slate Run (41mi), Blackwell (54mi), Barrens (92mi), Hacketts (99mi), Finish (103mi)
• Medical Support: Available at select major aid station locations
• Drop Bags: Allowed at designated full aid stations only – no drops at water-only stations
Recent Winners (100M)
2025: M: Michael Busada, F: Justyna
2023: M: Reagan McCoy 22:23:58
2022: M: Ryan Clifford 20:13:26
2021: M: Ben Quatromoni 22:31:28
Awards
All finishers receive a coveted buckle, with special recognition for sub-24-hour finishers. Top male and female finishers receive trophies. All finishers are recognized at the awards ceremony.
Official Website & Contact Info
• Website: easternstates100.com
• Race Director: Jeff Calvert (contact via website)
• Registration: easternstates100.com or RunSignup
• Phone: Contact via website