Trail running is way more than just a sport: it’s an adventure, a dive into nature, a personal challenge. All over the world, legendary races pull thousands of passionate runners every year. Here are the must-do trails, in France and internationally.
The must-do trails in France
Grand Raid de La Réunion® – Diagonale des Fous®
Île de La Réunion – 165 km / 10,000m D+
A name that speaks volumes for one of the toughest trails in the world. Crossing the island from south to north, this race offers breathtaking volcanic landscapes... and endless climbs. It's one of the oldest ultra trail plans, and Raidlight is proud to be a partner since 2015.
Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc® (UTMB)
Chamonix – 171 km / 10,000m D+
The UTMB is the holy grail of trail running! Every year, the world elite and thousands of runners try to complete this tour of Mont-Blanc crossing France, Italy, and Switzerland. A tough race where managing effort and weather conditions is key.
Marathon du Mont-Blanc®
Chamonix – 42 km / 2,780m D+
A mountain marathon that's accessible but demanding, with spectacular views of the Mont-Blanc massif. Perfect for those wanting a first high mountain trail experience.
Trail des Templiers®
Millau – 80 km / 3,500m D+
A historic race marking the birth of trail running in France. From limestone plateaus to the deep valleys of Aveyron, it’s a journey through history and nature.
Échappée Belle®
Belledonne – 149 km / 11,400m D+
One of the most technical and wild races, perfect for lovers of steep trails and pure adventure.
La Chartreuse Terminorum
Chartreuse – 300 km / 25,000m D+
The French little sister of the Barkley, with only six finishers in six editions, in the austere Chartreuse forest, a journey into the heart of millenary monasteries... Just a stone's throw from Raidlight, which is involved in this race unlike any other.
The most legendary trails in the world
The Barkley (USA)
Tennessee – 160 km (in theory!) / 25,000m D+!
The toughest race in the world with only 1% finishers, created by the incredible Lazarus Lake, a world without markings or aid stations in a forest around a prison… A nod to Benoit LAVAL - Founder of Raidlight – who miserably failed during his participation in this extraordinary race.
Western States 100® (USA)
California – 161 km / 5,500m D+
The first ultra-trail in history, created in 1974. A unique route crossing forests and canyons, with temperatures often soaring above 40°C.
Hardrock 100® (USA)
Colorado – 160 km / 10,000m D+
Famous for its alpine landscapes and high altitude, with a peak over 4,000m. A brutal race reserved for experts.
Marathon des Sables® (Morocco)
Sahara – 250 km in stages
A unique challenge where every runner must be completely self-sufficient in the desert. Between scorching heat and breathtaking landscapes, an extraordinary experience.
Zegama-Aizkorri® (Spain)
Basque Country – 42 km / 2,736m D+
A marathon famous for its incredible vibe and ultra-technical course in the Basque mountains.
Ultra-Trail du Mont Fuji® (UTMF) (Japan)
Japan – 165 km / 7,500m D+
The Asian equivalent of the UTMB, with breathtaking views around Mount Fuji.
How to pick your legendary trail?
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Experience level: Beginner? Go for a mountain marathon. Experienced? Dare the ultras.
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Environment: Do you prefer high mountains, desert, or tropical forest?
- Logistics: Some trails require a lottery to get in (UTMB, Hardrock 100).
Getting ready for a legendary race
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Specific training: Hill work, long runs, muscle strengthening.
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Right gear: A lightweight pack, shoes suited to the terrain, a waterproof breathable jacket.
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Effort and nutrition management: Learn how to fuel and hydrate properly over long distances.
📢 So, which legendary trail do you dream of tackling?
Tell us in the comments and share your experience!
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