Hyner View Trail Challenge running strong in 2nd year

By LIZ PURSEL - For The Express
LOCK HAVEN — Ready. Set. Hike.

The Hyner View Trail Challenge, in only its second year, is already making a name for itself.

Last year’s Challenge brought 432 registered participants, according to Race Director Craig Fleming.

“This year, we have 652 participants — a 50 percent increase since last year,” he said. “We have about 80 percent of last year’s participants returning, and a lot of them are bringing others along.”

In addition to this word-of-mouth advertisement, Fleming credits Trail Runner Magazine Online for promoting the event.

“There are a lot of people out there looking online and in magazines for great trails to hike,” he said. “And Hyner View is one of the best views in Pennsylvania.”

This year’s Challenge will host participants from 14 different states and three countries, including Canada.

One individual, from Munich, Germany, found The PA Wilds online after learning he was coming to the United States on business. During his visit to the States, he will also be participating in the Hyner View Trail Challenge, and is the person who will be traveling the furthest.

“We also have people from Colorado, Florida and Nevada coming, as well as people from closer states,” said Fleming.

Those travelers will experience the Challenge’s “16 miles of rugged, steep terrain” that includes stream crossings and side hills. Afterward, a catered picnic will be provided.

Fleming said that the Pennsylvania Trail Dogs, the group that hosts the Challenge, has been working since last year’s race to make sure that this year’s event is at least as successful as 2007’s, if not better.

“I’m really proud of all of the work the group has done to get the trail ready,” said Fleming. “The race committee has been working hundreds of hours fixing trails.”

The trails at Hyner View were formerly used for logging, and they are currently being restored for human use. There are also trails being created to the allow for the best possible views.

Fleming said the Trail Dogs restore these trails and host the Challenge because they have a mission to bring tourism to the local economy.

“We want to see the county grow, and people who come to the Challenge visit the local hotels, restaurants and grocery stores,” said Fleming.

Fleming, who also has an established business in Clinton County, says the Challenge, for him, not only benefits his store, Haven Shoes, but enhances his interest in the sport.

“Trail running’s my passion,” he said. “Nothing beats a run in the woods.”

The Hyner View Trail Challenge will be held on Saturday, April 19. Registration for those who have already signed up will begin Friday from 5-9 p.m. at the Western Clinton Sportsman’s Association near Renovo, and again from 7 to 9:45 the morning of the race.

For more information, visit www.havenshoes.com or contact Craig Fleming at 814-321-8281.