The best trail-running destinations in the world

Chamonix, France

We have to start with Chamonix, perhaps the most iconic trail-running destination in the world. Nestled in the heart of the French Alps, Chamonix is a dream come true for trail running enthusiasts. It’s home to the legendary Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc (UTMB), and the region offers some of the most technical and demanding trails, all with stunning views of the highest mountain in Western Europe. If you’re considering a trip to Chamonix, here’s what to expect:

Technical difficulty: Chamonix’s trails are notoriously tough, with steep ascents and rapid descents. If you’re new to trail running, you might want to start with easier terrain elsewhere.

Incredible views: Running beneath the towering Mont Blanc is an unforgettable experience. Glaciers, towering peaks, and deep valleys create an extraordinary backdrop that makes the effort worth it.

Trail running culture: As the European mecca of trail running, Chamonix boasts a vibrant community of mountain runners. You'll also find plenty of specialized stores and trail running events happening throughout the year.

Montseny Natural Park, Catalonia

Montseny Natural Park, just an hour from Barcelona, stands out as one of the most stunning trail-running spots in Catalonia. Recognized as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Montseny perfectly blends mountainous landscapes, lush forests, and challenging trails, making it a dream destination for mountain runners. Here’s what you can expect if you take on the trails in Montseny:

Diverse landscapes: Montseny offers a wide range of terrain, from dense beech and oak forests to drier, rocky areas at the peaks. The variety of natural environments is truly impressive.

Iconic peaks: Reaching the summits of Turó de l’Home or Matagalls is a tough but rewarding challenge, offering spectacular panoramic views of Catalonia and the Mediterranean. The scenery is truly breathtaking.

Easy accessibility: Despite being so close to Barcelona, Montseny’s trails offer a deep immersion in nature, providing a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.

Local races: Montseny also hosts several trail running events, like the Ultra Montseny, drawing both local and international runners eager to tackle the park’s technical trails.

With its mix of natural beauty, challenging routes, and proximity to the city, Montseny Natural Park is a must-visit for any trail-running enthusiast in Catalonia.

Colorado, USA

Colorado is synonymous with outdoor adventure in the United States, and its extensive trail network offers some of the best trail-running experiences in the world. With elevations soaring above 3,000 meters and peaks reaching over 4,000 meters, Colorado is an ideal destination for runners seeking high-altitude challenges and rugged terrain. Whether you're tackling the easier trails or pushing your limits on the more extreme routes, this state provides endless opportunities for trail runners who crave both adventure and breathtaking scenery.

In Colorado, you’ll discover:

Variety of terrains: From the more accessible trails of the Front Range to the demanding peaks of the Rocky Mountains, Colorado offers something for every runner, making it an ideal spot for group runs, no matter your skill level.

Thriving sports culture: Cities like Boulder and Aspen are known as hubs for elite athletes, offering a welcoming community for trail running enthusiasts. These towns have a rich outdoor culture and are perfect for those who love being active in nature.

Iconic events: Colorado is home to legendary races like the Hardrock 100, one of the toughest ultra-trail races in the world. Held in Silverton, it draws some of the best mountain runners from across the globe each year.

Isla de La Palma, Spain

La Palma, one of the Canary Islands, is a trail-running paradise with its breathtaking volcanic landscape. This small island has a unique geography, with trails that weave through dense forests, volcanic craters, and stunning coastal cliffs. Here’s what makes La Palma a standout destination for trail runners:

Diverse landscapes: In a single day, you can run from the beach to the summit of Roque de los Muchachos, the island’s highest peak, passing through lush laurel forests and rugged lava fields along the way.

Perfect climate: Thanks to its subtropical climate, La Palma offers ideal conditions for year-round training and running.

Transvulcania: This renowned trail running event is one of the most popular in the world, drawing both elite athletes and enthusiastic runners who come to test their limits on the island’s challenging terrain.

La Palma isn’t just about running, though. It’s also a top tourist spot, so after hitting the trails, you can unwind on its beautiful beaches and take in the island's natural beauty.

Queenstown, New Zealand

New Zealand is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, often showcased in films, and at the heart of this natural beauty lies Queenstown, the country's adventure capital. Surrounded by towering mountains and crystal-clear lakes, this small city offers a diverse range of trail running routes, from coastal paths to alpine challenges:

Pristine nature: Queenstown is a haven for nature lovers, with its untouched wilderness providing the perfect setting for trail running. You’ll experience wild, unspoiled terrain with little to no human interference.

Variety of routes: Whether you're looking for short, accessible trails or more extreme challenges like the famous Kepler Track, Queenstown offers a route for every runner, regardless of experience.

Adventurous atmosphere: As a hub for extreme sports, Queenstown is buzzing with adventure. Beyond trail running, you can dive into activities like paragliding, mountain biking, and rafting, making it a true playground for outdoor enthusiasts.

Torres del Paine, Chile

In southern Chile’s Patagonia region, Torres del Paine National Park stands as one of the most breathtaking trail-running destinations in the world. With its rugged mountains, turquoise lakes, and majestic glaciers, it offers an unparalleled running experience:

Isolation: Torres del Paine’s remote location means you’ll be running on trails that have seen little human activity, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the wild, untouched landscape.

Stunning natural beauty: The iconic granite towers, snowy peaks, and vibrant turquoise lakes create a dramatic backdrop for every step of your run, making it one of the most visually striking places on Earth.

Unique races: The Ultra Paine, held annually, draws runners from all over the world who are eager to take on the challenges of Patagonia’s rugged terrain and harsh conditions.

Madeira, Portugal

Madeira, a stunning island in the Atlantic, has quickly become a go-to destination for trail running enthusiasts. With its rugged mountains and lush forests, it offers challenging routes that cater to both beginners and seasoned runners.

Technical terrain: Madeira's trails are renowned for their difficulty, featuring steep climbs and rocky paths that will put your skills to the test.

Panoramic views: Almost anywhere on the island, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of the ocean and dramatic mountain landscapes that seem to plunge into the sea.

Ultra Madeira: This ultra-trail race has gained serious momentum in recent years, offering a challenging yet spectacular course that takes runners through some of the island's most beautiful scenery.

Dolomites, Italy

The Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage site, are among the most stunning mountain ranges in Europe. Located in northeastern Italy, they boast a vast network of trails ideal for trail running, with scenery that spans from dramatic peaks to lush, green valleys.

Diverse routes: The Dolomites have something for everyone, from beginner-friendly trails to extreme challenges for seasoned runners.

Iconic races: The Lavaredo Ultra Trail, one of Europe’s most popular races, draws runners from around the world with its breathtaking scenery and technical demands.

Breathtaking views: The towering limestone peaks and verdant valleys provide not just a physical challenge, but also a visual experience like no other.

The Dolomites offer an unforgettable blend of adventure and natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination for trail runners.