Ed Poling Memorial Hike for Hunger & Hope
Williamsport, United States • 16-30 May 2026
Ed Poling Memorial HARC Hike for Hunger & Hope
The HARC Hike is a two-part, non-competitive fundraising event held in May that supports Hagerstown Area Religious Council programs. Proceeds benefit HARC programs, with a significant portion directed to Micah’s Backpack and the Refugee Welcome Network. Individual fundraising is matched 2-to-1 by God’s Grace Fund.
Distances offered:
- Challenge Hike: 20 miles and 10 miles on the Appalachian Trail
- Canal Hikes: 5K (3 miles) and 10K (6.5 miles) on the C&O Canal towpath
The Challenge Hike is a one-way Appalachian Trail outing with shuttle transportation to the start and support along the route, including breakfast, lunch, and drink and snack refills. Canal hikes begin and end at Zion Lutheran Church in Williamsport and include snacks and drink stops, a post-hike lunch and celebration, a nature scavenger hunt, and prizes for top fundraisers. Challenge participants receive a certificate of completion and a group photo; a special Challenge Hike t-shirt is included with timely registration.
A virtual option allows participants to complete a hike on a date of their choice before the event. Early registration by May 10 qualifies for an early-bird discount and a guaranteed event t-shirt in the requested size. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.