Participants in the Trail Central America 250 Trail Challenge logged more than 53,000 miles and helped secure $2,500 for four local trail organizations.

The Allegheny National Forest Visitors Bureau recently presented the funding following the conclusion of the challenge, which drew 272 participants. Together, they logged 53,087 miles and burned more than 4.1 million calories during 2,287 workouts.

The distance is equivalent to walking around the Earth twice. In recognition of America’s 250th anniversary, 66 participants logged more than 250 miles each during the challenge.

The Tuna Valley Trail Association earned the $1,000 grand prize after its participants logged 27,521.29 miles — enough to circle the globe.

Three other organizations received $500 each to support trail development, maintenance and expansion. Trail Association McKean/Elk Divide placed second with 19,319.02 miles; the Mount Jewett to Kinzua Bridge Trail Club placed third; and the Kinzua Valley Trail Club placed fourth with 1,086.40 miles.

Organizers said the challenge brought families, dog walkers, runners and visitors to trail systems throughout the region.

“Seeing hundreds of people out on our trails — connecting with nature, supporting our local trail clubs and pushing their personal limits — was the absolute best part of this entire challenge,” said Rustin Lippincott, executive director of Trail Central–Allegheny National Forest Visitors Bureau. “We had people tracking miles on their lunch breaks, logging weekend hikes with their kids and showing the entire state what makes McKean County the ultimate outdoor destination.”

The visitors bureau and Trail Central thanked the participants, volunteers and trail organizations that maintain the area’s trails throughout the year.

For information about local trail systems, maps and upcoming outdoor events, visit PATrailCentral.com.