The Void

The setting is stark: runners will face the cold silence of an old Pennsylvania Turnpike relic turned endurance test site. Sideling Hill Tunnel stands as a testament to past grand visions left unfulfilled; its dark interior offers little respite from the harsh conditions that await those who venture inside for two days straight. On race morning, participants must be prepared not just physically but mentally, knowing they will confront darkness and isolation repeatedly.
The Void has become an annual tradition since 2018, drawing a small yet dedicated group of runners each year—around fifty to date—who are drawn by the promise of pushing their limits in one of America’s most unusual ultramarathons. The race supports local endurance running initiatives and helps fund scholarships for Valley-Hi High School athletes.
The course venue is the Sideling Hill Tunnel, a former Pennsylvania Turnpike tunnel constructed but never fully utilized. It offers 160 miles of continuous out-and-back runs on pavement with no lighting inside, making it an exercise in endurance through repetition. The start and finish line are at Pump Station Road, where runners will turn around cones marking the halfway point every 2.5 miles to complete their journey. Aid stations are strategically placed along the route for hydration and rest.
Weather conditions during November typically offer firm but slightly soft trail surfaces with low UV exposure. Runners can expect temperatures ranging from mild to chilly throughout race day, accompanied by moderate wind speeds that may vary. Precipitation risks remain relatively low, yet runners should be prepared for possible showers or misty conditions due to the tunnel’s location.
The Void offers a single distance: Enter The Void | fee=$196.80
In logistics, registration is open via https://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=135407 until November 20th at midnight for early birds looking to secure their spot in this challenging event. Bib pickup will occur on race day from 8:00 am to 9:00 pm at Pump Station Road, where participants must bring a government-issued ID and proof of entry payment.
For first-timers, the start location is located precisely at 3300 Pump Station Road in Valley-Hi. Age requirements state that runners must be at least 18 years old to participate. The race is designed for those seeking an unyielding physical challenge; it’s essential to arrive prepared with adequate supplies and mental fortitude.
The Void returns to Sideling Hill Tunnel, Valley-Hi, Pennsylvania on November 20th, presenting a rare opportunity to explore the limits of endurance in one of America's most unique ultramarathon locations.