Saturday, October 3,
2026
Thank you for Hiking this year!
Thank you for hiking! See you next year!
A Fall Fundraiser
to benefit Merck Forest's efforts to give kids (of all ages) access to nature.
$2,500 Signature:
The Pierson Family
Foundation
$1,000 Mt. Antone:
$500 Mt. Gallop:
$250 viewpoint:
2026 Hike-a-thon Images
What the Day Looks Like
Rain or shine, this joyful experience with the community on a landscape of consequence supports Merck Forest & Farmland Center and the place-based education it provides to regional students of all ages, and the stewardship that happens here. Pick your pace. Pick your loop. It all supports the MFFC mission.
Kids 10 & under are free. Add fundraising from friends and family to any registration.
Prizes and bragging rights go to the top fundraiser!
Guide to Determining Trail Choices: Easy Hiking Trails: Distance: Under 3 miles round trip Elevation gain: Less than 500 feet Terrain: Well-maintained, clearly marked trails Best for beginner hikers, families with children, casual walkers Moderate Hiking Trails: Distance: 3-6 miles roundtrip Elevation gain: 500-1,500 feet Terrain: Some steep sections, uneven surfaces, occasional obstacles Best for intermediate hikers with basic experience Hard/Difficult Hiking Trails: Distance: 6+ miles round trip Elevation gain: 1,500+ feet Terrain: Steep climbs, rough surfaces Best for hikers with strong fitness and experience
Viewpoint Loop
Distance: 2.1 miles
Elevation Gain: 551 feet
Trail Loop is rated Moderate
Mount Antone Summit
Distance, out & back: 5 miles
Elevation Gain: 860 feet
Trail is rated Moderate
Lookout Loop
Distance: 6.9 miles
Elevation Gain: 1,685 feet
Trail is rated Difficult
Farm Center & Discovery Trail
Distance: Approx. 1 mile
Elevation Gain: NA
Trail is rated Easy
Schedule At-a-Glance
Time | What's Happening |
|---|---|
8:30 AM - 10:30 AM | Check-in opens at the Visitors Center |
11:00 AM to 3:00 PM | Food Trucks, Live Music, Kids' Activities |
12:00 PM | Same-day walk-in registration closes |
2:00 PM | Hiking comes to an end and raffle prizes drawn |
3:00 PM | Event Ends - Thank you for hiking with us! |
Registration closed
Can't make it? Donate directly or support a participant!
Here's your map
Check out the routes!
Pick your favorite!
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FAQ
Merck Forest & Farmland Center is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to inspiring curiosity, love, and responsibility for natural and working lands.
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