[Author’s Note: This is the ninth article in an 11-part series celebrating legendary aid stations. You can read about the series here.]
The Eastern States 100 Mile, held each August deep in the hardwood forests of North Central Pennsylvania, is a 103-mile circumnavigation of Pine Creek in the Wilds region of Pennsylvania. Held almost entirely on gnarly, rocky singletrack, Eastern States climbs over 20,000 feet and has a strict 36-hour cutoff. The Eastern States Trail-Endurance Alliance manages the event as part of its mission to promote trail running and the responsible use of public lands in this remote area of Pennsylvania. In addition, the organization provides stewardship for hundreds of miles of trails throughout the region.
Creek crossings and mossy rocks aren’t in short supply at the Eastern States 100 Mile. All photos: Lisa DeNardo
At the 85-mile mark, Eastern States runners arrive at the Skytop aid station, an oasis in the midst of the deep, rugged wilderness of Pennsylvania. Run by a group informally known as the Central Pennsylvania Trail Legends, Skytop aid station is set in an amazingly beautiful location at a pivotal point in the race and is known for its variety of hot foods, including fresh blueberry pancakes, cheeseburgers, and chicken soup. Skytop is set at a private camp owned by the Lister family, who have hosted the aid station for years.
The aid station comes after two arduous climbs, Gillespie and Skytop, which are squeezed into several miles of multiple 1,000-plus-foot climbs, complete with Pennsylvania’s infamous rocks and stream crossings. Strings of twinkle lights line the trail for the last half mile of the climb, and the aid station volunteers make the arrival at the aid station feel like a homecoming. Most Eastern States runners with whom I have spoken have fond memories of their time at Skytop, which, not surprisingly, makes it a difficult aid station to leave, especially so late into the race.
A runner makes their way through the woods of North Central Pennsylvania.
While there are just 18 miles remaining in the race after runners leave Skytop, the miles are extremely tough, and the experienced crew at the aid station makes sure that the runners leave well-fed and prepared for what’s ahead. Given the August date of the event, as if the terrain was not tough enough, the area is also known for its oppressive humidity and ravenous mosquitoes, providing yet more challenges for Skytop’s intrepid volunteers.
Over the past several years, Eastern States has become one of the most notoriously difficult 100 milers on the “Beast Coast.” Yet, thanks to the wonderful team at the Skytop aid station, that difficulty is countered by the tremendous generosity and kindness of the people who make this special part of the world home.
The technical trails of the Eastern States 100 Mile makes a legendary aid station a welcome sight.
Bottoms up!
AJW’s Beer of the Week
This week’s Beer of the Week comes from one of North Central Pennsylvania’s finest craft breweries, Appalachian Brewing Company in Harrisburg. Jolly Scot Scottish Ale is a delicious traditional Scottish ale brewed in the classic style. Robust, nutty, and just a touch sweet, Jolly Scot is a perfect brew to enjoy after a long day in the wilds of Pennsylvania.
Call for Comments
- Have you had a chance to visit the Skytop aid station? What was your experience?
- What amazing aid station have you found in your racing?
