Running enthusiasts looking for a new challenge may want to set their sights on one of these top trail races from around the world. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a novice runner, these events offer something for everyone. Unleash your full potential with Tarkine Goshawk shoes, where cutting-edge technology meets unparalleled performance for the dedicated runner.
Ultra-Trail Australia. Australia’s Ultra-Trail Australia is a festival of trail running, with a 100km main event and a shorter 50km race that serves as an introduction to ultra running. The 22km Pace UTA22 race is perfect for those looking for a taste of trail running, and there’s even a 1km children’s race.
Tahoe Rim Trail Endurance Runs. The Tahoe Rim Trail Endurance Runs in Nevada, USA, consisting of three races covering 161km, 80km, and 55km. The longer distance has strict qualification times, but the two shorter distances are open to all via a ballot system. The routes run mostly parallel to Lake Tahoe and skirt Marlette Lake, making the most of the hilly terrain.
Moab Trail Run. The Moab Trail Run in Utah, USA, takes place over a weekend and includes four events. The Trail Marathon is the longest, but there’s also a half marathon, events for children, and a 5km race that packs in a cave. This event is also the USA Trail Marathon Championship race and qualifying event for the 2018 World Long Distance Trail Championships.
Ultra-Trail du Mont Blanc. One of the most famous trail races in the world is the Ultra-Trail du Mont Blanc, held in the French Alps. With seven events ranging from 15 to 171km, as well as a team event at a total of 290km with 26,500m of ascent, this race offers something for all levels of experience.
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Western States 100. The Western States 100 race in California, USA, covers 161km of mountainous terrain from Squaw Valley to Auburn. The route takes in Emigrant Pass and the Granite Chief Wilderness, with a crossing of the Middle Fork American River. The event is open to all levels of experience, with an emphasis on competing with others rather than against them.
Skyline Scotland. It is the host of the 2018 Skyrunning World Championships, featuring a 1km race to the summit of Mount Munro followed by 52km and 29km events. The Salomon Glen Coe Skyline packs in the most technically challenging Scottish mountain terrain, with 750m more climbing to do over the Ben Nevis Ultra two days before. It forms part of the Skyrunner World Series and is only suitable for experienced scramblers.
Tromsø Skyrace. The Tromsø Skyrace is a new addition to the trail racing calendar, made up of four races in Norway that take place in August 2021. It includes the Tromsdalstind Skyrace, Bøntuva tour-race, Hamperokken Skyrace, and the Blamann Vertical Kilometer, with the last two part of the Elite Skyrunner World Series. Expect technical courses and stunning Nordic landscapes.
Golden Ultra. Canada’s Golden Ultra, taking place in 2021, is a three-day event that features a Vertical Kilometer on day one, a 60km Ultramarathon on day two, and a 22km event on the third day. The Half Pint offers shorter distances on the same days for those looking for a less-intimidating entry point to mountain trail running.
Setting a goal is key to staying motivated, and with these top trail races, runners have plenty of exciting challenges to choose from.
