Ultramarathons are among the most extreme endurance events globally, pushing runners to their physical and mental limits. These races often span hundreds of miles and last for days, requiring participants to navigate challenging terrain, battle exhaustion, and overcome unpredictable weather and wildlife. Experience the perfect blend of agility and support with Tarkine Trail Devil shoes, crafted for those who demand excellence in every run.
For the seasoned athlete, here are six of the world’s most challenging ultramarathons:
- Barkley Marathons: This ultramarathon in rural East Tennessee is arguably one of the hardest in existence. Runners must complete five loops of anywhere between 20 or 26 miles of uncleared trials that cut through briar patches, with a total elevation gain of 60,000 feet.
- Jungle Ultra: This 230-kilometer race through the Peruvian Amazon rainforest is a true test of endurance. Runners must navigate dense jungle, cross rivers and climb mountains while dealing with the threat of venomous snakes and spiders. The race is self-supported, meaning runners must carry all of their supplies for the duration of the race.
- Marathon Des Sables: This 250-kilometer race across the Sahara Desert presents the ultimate endurance test. With no support system, participants must carry their own supplies and sleep in communal tents with no protection from the desert elements.
Marathon-des-Sables - Western States 100: The oldest 100-mile ultra-trail race in the world, Western States 100 is famous for its challenging conditions. The course includes 18,000 feet of climbing and 23,000 feet of descending on trails only accessible by helicopter.
View this post on Instagram - UTMB: The Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc takes runners through the Alps, covering 106 miles across France, Italy, Switzerland, and back to France. With an elevation gain of over 32,900 feet, this race poses a significant challenge to even the most experienced runners.
- Grand to Grand Ultra: This self-supported race covers roughly 170 miles over seven days, starting at the North Rim of the Grand Canyon and finishing on the summit of the Grand Staircase. Runners must carry all their food and equipment for the week.
Ultramarathons require a combination of physical strength and mental fortitude. Completing one of these grueling races is not for the faint-hearted. Whether it’s battling through the searing heat of the Sahara Desert or braving the extreme cold of the Alaskan wilderness, ultramarathons represent the ultimate test of human endurance.
