A heartfelt thank you to the The First Frontier – Blair County, PA – (Altoona-Blair County Development Corporation) for featuring Canoe Creek State Park—home of the Ironstone 100K and Dirty Kiln Trail Races—as part of your new branding initiative that highlights the landscape and opportunity across our region.
Though it may seem like a small gesture, to us, it’s a meaningful win. It’s a signal from our business community, elected officials, and residents that outdoor recreation matters. Fifteen years ago, the Alleghenies were largely overlooked—seen as geographic obstacles rather than assets. But slowly, that narrative has changed.
Back then, Allegheny Trailrunners was founded to help fill the void—one footrace at a time. And alongside our friends in hiking, biking, paddling, skiing, and more, we’ve watched central Pennsylvania emerge as a true outdoor playground.
Now, with events like Eastern States 100, Ironstone 100K, and the Eagleton Challenge under the Eastern States Trail-Endurance Alliance, we’re helping to elevate our region to a national stage—showcasing the natural beauty and deep-rooted heritage that make Pennsylvania special.
This extends beyond the trails. Through our 9-to-5 work, we’re pushing for stronger regional tourism, deeper collaboration, and even the formation of a statewide outdoor business alliance—all in service of growing, organizing, and advocating for the businesses and communities that depend on the outdoors.
So here’s to progress, to shared effort, and to a future where outdoor recreation isn’t just a pastime—but a pillar of our economy, culture, and identity.
Thanks and cheers—we’re all just getting started.