The Rock 'N The Knob Trail Challenge starts at 6:00 AM, so plan to arrive the evening before if you're traveling from a distance. Held in Claysburg, Pennsylvania at 1424 Overland Pass, this trail running event takes place at Pennsylvania's highest elevation. The race offers three distances: a 10K, half marathon, and 50K ultra, giving runners options across experience levels. Entry fees range from $47.50 to $99.00 depending on the distance selected. This September race draws trail runners and ultramarathoners looking for a significant elevation challenge in the state.
From the Race Organizer
September 12, 2026: ALLEGHENY TRAILRUNNERS INC. IS PROUD TO PRESENT THE 14TH ANNUAL ROCK ’N THE KNOB – PA’S HIGHEST RACE. BREAKING THE WILL OF ALL WHO DARE TRY… The Ultramarathon Course (50K) begins at 6:00am and the Medium Distance Course (20K-25K) starts at 9:00am and the Short Course (10K) starts at 10am. The race will offer three courses: a Short Course (10K-ish), a Medium Distance Course (20K-25K) and a challenging Ultramarathon Course (50K) for the more experienced. TAKEAWAYS: 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, Devils Hairpin, Throat Punch Hill and Soul Sucker Slopes! Two major climbs give you over 1350 feet of climbing. 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. We took the marathon course and cutting it in half but leaving in more than half of the challenges and sufferfest. The half features some gnarly sections like Blister Blaster, Teal is Real up Deep Hollow Notch, I'll Nettle Do This Again and I Need a Sherpa! We are amending the course in 2021 to include more elevation madness with almost 3500 feet of climbing - or 7000 feet of elevation change. There are three aid stations and a six 1/2-hour time limit. There are 3 Aid Stations: 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: For mountain-goats, this course will brake the will of many as you repeatedly attempt to ascend Blue Knob Mountain, the most northern 3,000+ foot peak in the Alleghenies. The 50K is our infamous mountain marathon “boosted” to an ultramarathon which includes all the ‘greatest hits’ of both the medium course and 10k races. More - http://www.alleghenytrailrunners.com/rock-n-the-knob-trail-challenge/ In Summary: At over 3,100 feet above sea level, it is Pennsylvania’s highest race. A 10K, half-marathon or 50K options. Both are more technical (rocky) than our little sister, the Dirty Kiln Trail Race. Lodging is available at Blue Knob All-Seasons Resort, wake up feet from the start and finish. Our famous swag package. Post-race food and beer is included with the entry fee. Start/Finish Address: 1424 Overland Pass Claysburg, Pennsylvania 16625. Bib pickup begins 7am in the pavilion beside the Blue Knob Clubhouse Restaurant and Conference Center.
Hotels Near This Race
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Rock ‘N The Knob Trail Challenge – PA’s Highest Trail Race 2026 — Claysburg, PA
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Race Travel Insurance
Don't forget travel insurance for September 12.
You've trained for months and booked a trip to Claysburg, PA.
A pre-race injury, a delayed flight, or a family emergency can derail the whole thing.
Travel insurance can help cover your race entry fee, hotel, and flights if you can't make it,
and may cover medical costs if something goes wrong on the course. Plans typically only run
5-7% of your total trip cost — and running events are covered under standard plans with no
additional coverage needed.
Trip cancellation up to 100% of prepaid costs
Running events covered under standard plans — no add-ons needed
Trip interruption up to 150% of non-refundable costs
When is Rock ‘N The Knob Trail Challenge – PA’s Highest Trail Race 2026 — Claysburg, PA?
Rock ‘N The Knob Trail Challenge – PA’s Highest Trail Race 2026 — Claysburg, PA takes place on September 12, 2026. The race is held in Claysburg, Pennsylvania.
Where is Rock ‘N The Knob Trail Challenge – PA’s Highest Trail Race 2026 — Claysburg, PA held?
Rock ‘N The Knob Trail Challenge – PA’s Highest Trail Race 2026 — Claysburg, PA is held at 1424 Overland Pass in Claysburg, Pennsylvania.
Where can I find hotels near Rock ‘N The Knob Trail Challenge – PA’s Highest Trail Race 2026 — Claysburg, PA?
RaceHotelFinder shows hotels sorted by distance from the race venue in Claysburg. Use the map or list view on this page to compare options and book race weekend accommodation.
