Understanding the Different Trail Running Formats
You often hear about short trail, marathon trail, or ultra trail… but what are the real differences? If you want to better understand the trail running categories, choose your goals, or build a suitable training plan, you’re in the right place. Here’s a clear and simple overview of the different trail formats, from the most accessible to the most extreme.
1. Short trail: accessible and explosive
Distance: generally under 30 km
Sometimes called discovery trail, it’s the perfect entry point to discover the discipline.
- Fast profile: often more runnable, with moderate elevation gain.
- Less management: no need to carry much gear.
- Ideal for beginners: you can start with little experience, especially if you already run on roads.
👉 How to start trail running?
👉 12-week training plan – short trail (14 to 30km)
2. Marathon trail: endurance effort in nature
Distance: around 42 km, with significant elevation gain
This is the equivalent of a road marathon, but in mountain or natural settings, often more technical and demanding.
- Long effort: requires a real race and nutrition strategy.
- Variable technique: alternating runnable paths, single tracks, steep sections.
- Serious preparation needed: you need a solid endurance base.
3. Ultra trail: the long-haul adventure
Distance: beyond 50 km, sometimes up to 100, 160 km… or more!
Ultra trail is a discipline in its own right, going beyond just athletic performance. It’s a mental, physical, and logistical challenge.
- Managing effort over dozens of hours
- Night events or even over several days
- Massive elevation gain and varied conditions (altitude, weather…)
- Partial or full autonomy: you must manage your nutrition, sleep, and gear
This format corresponds to legendary races like the UTMB, the GRP, or the Diagonale des Fous.
👉 12-week training plan – ultra trail
👉 Download our ultra trail guide (nutrition, gear, race management…)
