A road marathon can be a tough challenge and a novel way to experience a city. However, if you want to take on something truly epic, something that takes you out into the wilds, far beyond your perceived limits, then consider an ultra running race. An ultra running event is anything longer than a traditional 26.2 mile (42.2km) marathon. Below are 10 of the best ultra running races around the world.
1. Ultra Trail du Mont Blanc (UTMB), France
The UTMB is one of the most popular ultra races in the world. Securing a spot is quite competitive, requiring participants to earn qualifying points and enter a ballot. Places are in high demand due to the legendary atmosphere around the 106-mile (170km) course. The race commences in the mountain town of Chamonix, France, where the entire trail running community gathers annually for this week-long festival. The challenging course includes extensive climbs (approximately 10,000m) and descents, all accompanied by the motivating sounds of “allez allez” and ringing cowbells.
2. Ultra-Trail Mount Fuji, Japan
Japan’s iteration of the UTMB is a 104-mile (167km) race that winds around one of the world’s most iconic mountains, Fuji-san. This event features many steep sections, culminating in a cumulative elevation gain of 8000m. The Ultra-Trail Mount Fuji is known for its meticulous organization, with well-lit night sections to prevent runners from getting lost, alongside aid stations that serve comforting bowls of hot udon noodles.
3. Comrades Marathon, South Africa
The Comrades Marathon is the biggest and oldest ultra running event globally, showcasing a vibrant atmosphere of goodwill and camaraderie in South Africa. At the mass start, 20,000 participants sing the traditional South African miners’ song “Shosholoza”. Following that, runners embark on the iconic route between Durban and Pietermaritzburg. The race alternates its direction yearly, presenting unique challenges each time, whether it’s the “down” run or the “up” run. The route, lined with supportive locals enjoying braais (barbecues) and cheering all competitors, truly enhances the experience.
4. West Highland Way Race, Scotland
This 95-mile (153km) ultra race traverses the stunning West Highland Way in Scotland, from Milngavie to Fort William. Runners will experience idyllic landscapes, including remote lochs and high mountain passes. Since first being held in 1985, this race has gained popularity among ultra marathon enthusiasts in the UK.
5. Western States 100, California, USA
The most iconic trail race in the US, the Western States 100-Mile Endurance Run stretches from Squaw Valley to Auburn, crossing the Sierra Nevada mountains. Since its inception in 1974, it has challenged numerous elite ultra runners. Gaining entry is difficult due to national park restrictions, and conditions can be punishing. Runners often face snow at high elevations and scorching heat in the valley. Completing this race before the 30-hour cutoff is a significant achievement.
6. Spartathlon, Greece
The Spartathlon commemorates the legendary run of Pheidippides from Athens to Sparta in 490 BCE, spanning a formidable 152 miles (245km). Starting beneath the Acropolis, this race is a demanding test, with strict cutoff times at 75 checkpoints and a total time limit of 36 hours.
7. Barkley Marathons, Tennessee, USA
The Barkley Marathons is infamous for its grueling challenge, described by the race director Lazarus Lake as being on the edge of human capability. In its 35-year history, only 15 individuals have finished this 100-mile (161km) race, inspired by a 1977 jail break. The demanding course lacks fixed start times and official aid stations, and those daring enough to enter must navigate its eccentric entry process. The allure of conquering the Barkleys keeps countless ultra runners dreaming of the elusive finish line.
8. Marathon des Sables (MdS), Morocco
Set in the breathtaking Sahara Desert, the MdS is renowned as the most illustrious multi-day race globally. During this week-long journey, participants traverse 155 miles (250km) of sand, carrying all supplies on their backs. Many describe this race as life-altering, as participants often form deep connections with fellow competitors, leading to lifelong friendships. Despite the logistical complexities of organizing in a desert environment, the event is impeccably orchestrated for 1200 runners.
9. Zegama-Aizkorri, Spain
Dubbed the Tour de France of mountain running, the Zegama-Aizkorri features spectators who cheer vigorously for racers throughout one of the toughest marathon routes in the world. The technical trails in the Basque mountains include over 5000m of ascent during the 26-mile (42.2km) race, creating an exhilarating atmosphere filled with local culture and natural beauty.
10. Lavaredo Ultra Trail, Italy
Set against the stunning backdrop of the Italian Dolomites, the 75-mile (120km) Lavaredo Ultra Trail begins late at night in Cortina d’Ampezzo. As dawn breaks, participants find themselves enveloped in breathtaking scenery, including the iconic Tre Cime di Lavaredo. The course offers the chance for refreshment in crystal-clear mountain streams before racing against time to return before nightfall, culminating in lively celebrations in local pizzerias and bars.
Adharanand Finn is an award-winning running author known for titles including Running with the Kenyans, The Way of the Runner, and The Rise of the Ultra Runners.
This article was first published in September 2019 and last updated in January 2021.
