Trail running is much more than just a sport: it's an adventure, an immersion in nature, a personal challenge. All over the world, legendary races attract thousands of enthusiasts every year. Here are the not-to-be-missed trails in France and abroad.
The must-do trails in France
Grand Raid de La Réunion® – Diagonale des Fous®
Reunion Island – 165 km / 10 000m D+
An evocative name 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 is one of the oldest ultra trail plans, and Raidlight is proud to have been 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's elite and thousands of runners attempt to complete this tour of Mont-Blanc through France, Italy and Switzerland. It's a demanding race, where managing effort and weather conditions is key.
Marathon du Mont-Blanc®
Chamonix – 42 km / 2 780m D+
An accessible but demanding mountain marathon, with spectacular views of the Mont Blanc massif. Ideal for those looking for their first high mountain trail experience..
Trail des Templiers®
Millau – 80 km / 3 500m D+
A historic race that marks the birth of trail running in France. From the limestone plateaux to the deep valleys of the 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, ideal for fans of steep trails and pure adventure.
La Chartreuse Terminorum
Chartreuse – 300 km / 25.000m D+The Barkley's little French sister, with only six finishes in six editions, crosses the austere Chartreuse forest in the heart of ancient monasteries... A stone's throw from Raidlight, which is involved in this race like no other.
The world's most legendary trails
La Barkley (USA)
Tennessee – 160 km (en théorie !) / 25.000m D+ !
The toughest race in the world with only 1% of finishers, created by the incredible Lazarus Lake, a world without markers or refreshments in a forest around a prison... A nod to Benoit LAVAL - Founder of Raidlight - who failed miserably when he took part 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 course through forests and canyons, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C.
Hardrock 100® (USA)
Colorado – 160 km / 10 000m D+
Renowned for its Alpine scenery and high altitude, culminating at over 4,000m. A formidable race reserved for experts.
Marathon des Sables® (Marocco)
Sahara – 250 km en étapes
A unique event in which each rider must be completely self-sufficient in the desert. Between scorching heat and imposing landscapes, this is an extraordinary experience..
Zegama-Aizkorri® (Spain)
Pays Basque – 42 km / 2 736m D+
A marathon renowned for its incredible atmosphere and ultra-technical course in the Basque mountains.
Ultra-Trail du Mont Fuji® (UTMF) (Japon)
Japan – 165 km / 7 500m D+
The Asian equivalent of the UTMB, with spectacular panoramas around Mount Fuji.
How do you choose your legendary trail?
- Level of experience : Are you a beginner? Opt for a mountain marathon. Experienced? Try an ultras.
- Environment: Do you prefer the high mountains, the desert or the rainforest?
- Logistics : Some trails require a draw to take part (UTMB, Hardrock 100).
Preparing for a legendary race
- Specific training : Hill work, long rides, muscle strengthening.
- Adapted equipment : A light rucksack, shoes suited to the terrain and a waterproof, breathable jacket.
- Exercise and nutrition management: Learn how to eat and drink properly over long distances.
📢 And what legendary trail do you dream of doing?
Tell us in the comments and share your experience!
Discover all our expert advice on how to equip yourself properly and optimise your trail running training. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned trail runner, our dedicated articles will guide you in your choice of ideal equipment, the right physical preparation and the best strategies for performing on all types of terrain.
How do you prepare your 12L bag for the UTMB, the Diagonale des Fous or the UT4M?
