The Ironstone 100K Ultramarathon stands as one of Pennsylvania's most formidable trail races, challenging runners with its rugged terrain and demanding course. Set to take place on July 10, 2027, this point-to-point race begins at Canoe Creek State Park in Blair County and concludes at Greenwood Furnace State Park in Huntingdon County. The Ironstone 100K is renowned for the technical nature of its trails, which traverse some of the wildest sections of Pennsylvania's Ridge and Valley region. The route features a blend of fast rail trail running along the Frankstown Branch of the Juniata River at Canoe Creek State Park before transitioning to more challenging terrain on Tussey Mountain via the Mid-State Trail. This section is particularly notable for its long ridge runs, offering runners breathtaking views across folded sandstone and quartzite ridges. As participants progress through the race, they encounter diverse landscapes including old-growth pine forests in Alan Seeger Natural Area, a mountain pass at Little Juniata Natural Area, and craggy ledges near Indian Wells. The final stretch of the course follows the Standing Stone Trail to Greenwood Furnace State Park, providing both scenic beauty and historical significance. The Ironstone 100K is not for beginners; it requires significant trail running experience due to its technical terrain, elevation changes, and unpredictable weather conditions. Runners must complete a qualifying race—a minimum of one advertised 50K trail event—between January 1, 2025, and their registration date for the Ironstone. In addition to proving their readiness through prior racing accomplishments, participants are also required to contribute at least eight hours of volunteer work or make an equivalent donation to support local trails. This commitment underscores the race's dedication to giving back to public lands that enable such events. With a 23-hour cut-off time and strict rules regarding pacers and night running, this ultramarathon pushes runners to their limits both physically and mentally. Yet those who complete it are rewarded with unique metal awards, commemorative flannel shirts, and complimentary beverages at the finish line. The Ironstone 100K is a celebration of endurance, resilience, and the beauty of Pennsylvania's natural landscapes. It invites serious trail runners looking for a true test of their skills amidst some of the most challenging trails in the region.
Races Offered
Ironstone 100K
Jul 10, 2027
straighten
Distance —
100K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
14:00
sell
$175.00
Weather History
These values represent the 3-year monthly averages for July in Hollidaysburg.
thermostatTemperature
18.2° / 30.1°
wb_sunnyFeels like
19.6° / 30.9°
light_mode
Avg sunshine hours
12h 23m
water_drop
Avg rainfall
2.2 mm
ac_unit
Avg snowfall
—
air
Avg wind speed
6.7 km/h (Light breeze)
opacity
Sweat loss rate
High
terrain
Course conditions
Hard and dry surface
sunny
Max UV Index
Very High (8.0)
humidity_mid
Humidity
71.9%
wb_twilight
Sunrise
05:56
nightlight
Sunset
20:39
About Hollidaysburg
Learn more about the host city, Hollidaysburg.
Hollidaysburg is a borough in and the county seat of Blair County in the U.S. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. It is located on the Juniata River, 5 miles (8 km) south of Altoona and is part of the Altoona, Pennsylvania, metropolitan statistical area. In 1900, 2,998 people lived in the borough, in 1910, 3,734 lived there, and in 1940, 5,910 residents were counted. The population was 5,641 at the 2020 census. Coal, iron ore, ganister, and limestone are found in the vicinity. In the past, the borough had foundries and machine shops, a silk mill, car works and classification yards.
