Tussey Mountainback to unveil 100-mile ultramarathon

Cole Crosby cruises through the fall foliage along the Tussey Mountainback's 50-mile course. Photo by James Riccardo.

State College, PA – The Tussey Mountainback, a relay and ultramarathon footrace now in its 25th year and known for its signature 50-mile loop in Central Pennsylvania’s Rothrock State Forest, will introduce a 100-mile ultramarathon race option at this year’s event. The Tussey Mountainback race weekend is set for Oct. 25–27.

“We’ve had some inquiries over the years, from runners who do the 50 miler, about doubling it up to add to the fun and challenge,” said Mike Casper, the event’s director. “We’re thrilled to offer the 100-mile ultramarathon option to runners this year.” The 100-mile race will consist of two loops on the same course as the 50-mile race. Runners in the 100-mile race will start their first loop at 6:30 p.m. on the evening of Oct. 26 at Tussey Mountain Ski Area.

The well-established 50-mile ultramarathon event will begin at its usual time, 7 a.m. the next morning, Oct. 27. This year’s 50-mile ultramarathon also features the 2024 USA 50 Mile Road Championships, which will draw top distance runners from around the country.

The Mountainback’s popular 50-mile team relay race will use staggered starts beginning at 8 a.m. on Oct. 27.

The Tussey Mountainback is also introducing two other events, a half marathon and a kids’ race. The Mountainback’s existing 50-kilometer ultramarathon will take place on Oct. 27.

Proceeds from this year’s Mountainback events will support the Centre Region Down Syndrome Society. The Centre County–based organization provides individuals with Down syndrome and their families the tools, resources and support necessary to participate in, contribute to, and achieve personal health and fulfillment.

The Mountainback also hosts several other events throughout the year. Beginning in late August, an informal group run series called the Discovery Training Series will cover the entire 50-mile loop course a portion at a time in the course of eight Saturdays, from Aug. 31 to Oct. 19.