Overview: 16.5-Mile Hike

Congratulations for taking on the Project U.S.E. 16.5-mile hike along the Appalachian Trail!  This hike is a longstanding tradition each spring to raise money to expand equitable access to our outdoor programs for youth.

Things to do before the hike:

• Fundraise! If you haven’t already, set up a fundraising page at 50milehike.org, contribute, and share to help us raise money to provide quality outdoor programs for underserved youth in the tri-state area. Last year we provided nearly $130,000 in scholarships and aid for kids, and we can only continue to serve in that way with your help!  Here are some great, simple tips to help you fundraise.
• Hit Some Trails and Train! Get on your local trails, go for walks, get outside! Here are some helpful tips from Backpacker Magazine.
• Supply: Each 16.5 mile hike participant should have a bag with necessary supplies: view our suggested gear/packing list here.

Logistics: 16.5-Mile Hike (May 3, 2025)

• 11:00am: All 16.5-mile hikers will meet at the small parking lot at the High Point State Park Office near the entrance to High Point State Park along Route 23.  You will see the Project U.S.E. van stationed in a small parking lot near the park office; hikers will be able to leave their cars at the Appalachian Trail Parking Lot, which is a short walk/ride from the hike finish.
• 11:00am to 11:30am: Registration and Orientation; load into vans for transport to hike start.
• 11:30am: All 16.5-mile hikers leave in vans for Culvers Gap (start of 16.5-mile hike)
• 12:00pm: Arrival at Culvers Gap: Safety Talk, Final Hike roster check, Water fill.
• 12:15pm: START HIKING!
• ~3:30pm: Arrive at Hike Checkpoint #1 – Deckertown Turnpike (~10.5 miles)
• 5:30pm to 6:30pm: FINISH hike at High Point State Park (~6 miles).  Check in at finish, awards ceremony and BBQ reception at High Point Pavilion picnic area.

Things to Note:

• The hike begins right around lunchtime – please come well fed and fueled for the hike!  Bring snacks and plenty of water to refuel and stay hydrated along the way.
• The first section of this hike can be challenging!
• There is 1 checkpoint along the hike route
• At each checkpoint, we will have water and volunteers to support the hikers.  First aid supplies will also be available if needed.