Rock 'N The Knob Trail Challenge – PA’s Highest Trail Race

Rock 'N The Knob Trail Challenge

Event Details

Join us for the 14th Annual Rock ’N The Knob – PA’s Highest Race on September 12, 2026.

Location: 1424 Overland Pass, Claysburg, PA

Race Times:

• Ultramarathon Course (50K): Begins at 6:00am
• Medium Distance Course (20K-25K): Starts at 9:00am
• Short Course (10K): Starts at 10:00am

Course Descriptions

Short Course (10K-ish)

This course may be the most challenging 10K in PA (based on the fastest and average finish times). The 10K features challenges like:

• Tree-odge: A challenging technical section.
• Devils Hairpin: A steep corner with a thrilling descent.
• Throat Punch Hill: A notorious climb that tests your strength.
• Soul Sucker Slopes: Elevation gains of over 1350 feet.

There is one aid station at the base of the first climb called Throat Punch Hill at 3 miles. More: http://www.alleghenytrailrunners.com/rock-n-the-knob-trail-challenge/

Medium Distance Course (20K-25K)

Get ready – this race is a doozy. Highlights include:

• Blister Blaster: A tough section that will challenge your endurance.
• Teal is Real: A winding path through Deep Hollow Notch.
• I'll Nettle Do This Again: A test of both speed and resilience.
• I Need a Sherpa! Expect some serious climbing with almost 3500 feet of ascent.

There are three aid stations and a six-and-a-half hour time limit:

• At Chappelle's Field (Mile 4.6)
• At Ravens Rest (Mile 7.2)
• At Heavens Hairpin (Mile 11.1)

More: http://www.alleghenytrailrunners.com/rock-n-the-knob-trail-challenge/

Ultramarathon Course

For mountain-goats, this course will break the will of many with repeated ascents of Blue Knob Mountain, the most northern 3,000+ foot peak in the Alleghenies. Features include:

• Infamous mountain marathon: Boosted to an ultramarathon.
• Greatest hits: Includes highlights from both the medium course and 10K races.
• Elevation challenge: Prepare for an intense climbing experience.
• Adventure awaits: For those daring enough to take it on.

More: http://www.alleghenytrailrunners.com/rock-n-the-knob-trail-challenge/

Event Summary

• Elevation: At over 3,100 feet above sea level, it is Pennsylvania’s highest race.
• Distance Options: A 10K, half-marathon or 50K options.
• Location: Lodging is available at Blue Knob All-Seasons Resort, right next to the start and finish.
• Post-Race: Food and beer included with the entry fee.

Additional Information

Start/Finish Address: 1424 Overland Pass Claysburg, Pennsylvania 16625. Bib pickup begins at 7am in the pavilion beside the Blue Knob Clubhouse Restaurant and Conference Center.