Why I’m Running 100 Miles on the Finger Lakes Trail
(and why I’d love your help making it count)

I’ve logged thousands of miles on the Finger Lakes Trail and branches over the years—running, hiking, exploring, and sometimes just walking around. It’s become part of my life and a place where I’ve worked through long training miles, stress, joy, songs on repeat in my head, and occasionally mud up to my knees.

So when I decided it was finally time to run a 100-miler—something that’s been in the back of my mind for years—I quickly decided that there wasn't an event that would really do the trick. I wanted it to mean something more.

That’s why I’m creating my own 100-mile route, right here in the Finger Lakes, starting west near Bath and finishing in Ithaca. It’s not just about crossing the finish line (though I’ll need all the help I can get by mile 87…). It’s about showing up for the trail.

Here’s where you come in:

I’m using this effort to raise support & funding for the Finger Lakes Trail Conference, the small but mighty nonprofit that keeps this sprawling network of trails open, maintained, and accessible. Fifty percent of all funds raised will go directly to them—and the rest will help cover the logistics, gear, crew snacks, and whatever it takes to keep me upright through 100 miles.

If the trail has ever given you something—a view, a quiet moment, a way to get outside—this is a chance to give back.

Even a few dollars (or just a share with your trail-loving friends) will help make this adventure possible—a single dollar split with the FLTC will still get my support vehicle 5 miles down the road to the next stop :)

Thanks for being a part of this.

Important Notes

Buying Local: Wherever possible, I'll purchase food, supplies, and gear from local stores - let's keep it in the community!
Everyone Gets Access: I'll be sharing updates that everyone can access, no matter the donation amount. These will be in the months and weeks leading up to the event, and if technology allows it - during the event at times.
Fundraising "Stretch" Goals: I'm happy with any amount that we can raise, but in the event of hitting certain milestones, here's what will happen:
- $1,000 - MILESTONE ACHIEVED!
  - I'll collect any and all questions donators have about the planning, logistics, and the run, and answer them on a recorded call that I'll share here with donators.
- $2,500 - MILESTONE ACHIEVED!
  - I'll do the call as outlined above, and send all donors a custom made enamel commemorative pin + host a trail run/walk/hike meetup in the Finger Lakes.
- $5,000
  - I'll host (and cook) brats from a local farm with fixings and side dishes for everyone that donated. Details TBD!
- Beyond $5,000
  - 80% of all funds donated past $5,000 will be donated to the Finger Lakes Trail Conference with the remainder going to any remaining expenses for the run, support, and the $5,000 milestone grilling meetup.

Event Sponsors

Thank you to these local businesses for helping make this possible!

Woodpepper Bread - click here to visit.

Cayuta Sun Farm - click here to visit.

Flake Pastries - click here to visit.

Topo Athletic Shoes - click here to visit.

Tailwind Nutrition - click here to visit.

Finger Lakes Runners Club - click here to visit.

FAQ

When does this take place?
- October 4th, 2025 (and likely into the 5th).
Can I run with you?
- If you contact me beforehand and we work something out, probably!
I can't donate money at this time, but I might be able to share some time, prepared food, etc. How can I help?
- Send me an email at: adam@fingerlakeseffect.com
My business wants to participate, how can we get involved?
- Send me an email at: adam@fingerlakeseffect.com
Will I get anything for my donation?
- You bet! Everyone will get access to all updates and event photos/videos that we will be sharing.
- Additionally, depending on the donation level, you'll also get:
  - $500 - I'll make a separate donation in your name - you'll be immortalized on a future FLT Lean-To plaque!
  - $250 - Get an Aid Station named after you & a shout out in the Finger Lakes Effect newsletter & Instagram
  - $100 - Custom sticker & a custom made patch
  - $50 - Custom sticker & a handwritten note
Can I surprise you and show up on the trail with a group of people?
- Sorry, but no - the Finger Lakes Trail use rules don't allow for large groups on the trail. But I will have some designated areas where meetups can happen which I'll share with donors as the time gets closer. Thank you!
Can I donate anonymously?
- Yes! When making the donation you can choose whether to show your name or not.

Finger Lakes Trail 100 Miler

By Finger Lakes Effect

Finger Lakes Trail 100 Miler

Running the trails & support them at the same time!