Ed Poling Memorial Hike for Hunger & Hope

Ed Poling Memorial HARC Hike for Hunger & Hope

This is the 14th year of this fundraising event organized by the Hagerstown Area Religious Council. It consists of two separate hiking events.

The Challenge Hike takes place on May 16, 2026. It is a one-way hike on the Appalachian Trail with two distance options:

• A 20-mile route
• A 10-mile route Participants meet at Pen Mar Park and are shuttled to their start points. The event includes a light breakfast, a hearty lunch, and water, Gatorade, and snacks along the trail. Anyone completing the full 20-mile hike is listed on a Wall of Fame. There is an early registration discount available.

The 5K and 10K Canal Hikes take place on May 30, 2026. These hikes occur on the C&O Canal Towpath in Williamsport, Maryland.

• 5K (3.1 miles)
• 10K (6.2 miles) All hikes conclude at Zion Lutheran Church in Williamsport, where a post-hike celebration lunch is held. Check-in for all participants is at the church. For the 10K, participants are shuttled to the start point at Dam Number 5. The event includes snacks, drink stops, a nature scavenger hunt, and prizes for top fundraisers. Early registration includes a discount and a guaranteed t-shirt.

Proceeds benefit HARC programs, with a significant portion going to Micah's Backpack, which provides weekend meals for children, and the Refugee Welcome Network. A fundraising match from the God’s Grace Fund is available. A virtual participation option is also offered for those who cannot attend the in-person events. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.