Races

The World's Toughest Trail Races

Ready for a life changing adventure? Inspired to push your boundaries, go further than you ever thought possible and conquer great distances across the world’s most challenging terrain? Welcome to the world of extreme trail running, a world that will not only test you to your physical and mental limits, but also take you on an extraordinary personal journey in the world’s most remote, breath-taking locations. This is our shortlist of the world’s toughest, most iconic trail races – only the hardcore need apply.

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1. MARATHON DES SABLES, MOROCCO

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Hailed as the toughest footrace on earth, the Marathon Des Sables is a 7 day, 6 stage race across 156 miles of hostile Saharan desert terrain. Runners are completely self-sufficient, carrying their own kit and supplies whilst enduring scorching temperatures of 50 degrees Celsius and higher. Severe chafing, blisters and swollen cracked feet under the pressure and temperatures are a certainty as you battle through unforgiving desert conditions. But on the other hand, you’ll experience amazing camaraderie from the other runners and awe-inspiring Saharan scenery. There’s no doubt about it – this race will make you suffer, but as the MDS organisers state: you’ll finish it a hero.

Location: Morocco

Distance: 156 miles

Terrain: Desert, sand, rock.

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2. MONTANE SPINE RACE, UK

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This brutal 7-day race takes place across the entire 268 miles of the Pennine Way in the harshest of winter conditions. Runners endure deep snow, ice, gale force winds and torrential rain as they tackle some of the most beautiful but toughest terrain the UK has to offer. Taking in the Peak District, Cheviots, Yorkshire Dales and Northumberland National Park. Exposed to the elements and subjected to sleep deprivation and extreme fatigue, you’ll need to push yourself harder than you’ve ever pushed yourself before – and beyond - to reach the finish line.

Location: Pennine Way, UK

Distance: 268 miles

Terrain: Mountain trail, moorland

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3. JUNGLE ULTRA, PERU

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Set in the Manu National Park, Peru, the Jungle Ultra is a five-stage race across 143 miles of deep Amazonian rainforest. Descending from the Andean cloud forest into the sweltering, hostile jungle, runners are not only pushed to the very limits of their endurance, but must also battle through choking humidity, deep mud, heavy rain and river crossings. All that whilst being completely self-supported, carrying a hammock, sleeping bag and supplies. This race will take absolutely everything you’ve got, drawing on the very last reserves of your mental and physical strength - but your reward is experiencing the world’s most remote, unspoilt rainforest, incredible wildlife and an extraordinary, once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Location: Manu National Park, Peru

Distance: 143 miles

Terrain: Jungle, Rain Forest and Cloud Forest

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4. LEADVILLE TRAIL 100, COLORADO

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Known as the “Race Across the Sky” this legendary trail classic is still today one of the toughest trail races in the world. Starting in 1983 with just 45 runners, this gruelling 100-mile race setting out from Leadville, Colorado now welcomes thousands of runners to its stunning mountain location. Passing through the heart of the Rocky Mountains, the race incorporates the infamous “Hope Pass” with a monster ascent to its 12,000-foot summit, putting an end to many an exhausted runner’s dreams of finishing. It figures that only around half of participants each year can expect to make it to Leadville’s iconic finish line.

Location: Leadville, Colorado

Distance: 100 miles

Terrain: Dirt road, gravel, trail

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5. FIRE AND ICE ULTRA

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Cited as the toughest multi terrain race in the world and rated as tougher than Marathon des Sables by 5 times MDS winner Mohamad Ahansal, the Fire and Ice Ultra takes in 155 miles of Icelandic wilderness over 6 days. Carrying your own kit and supplies, you’ll find yourself running through rocky canyons, lava fields, deserts of ash, glacial river crossings and even along the ridge of a dormant volcano. In recent years, participants have also been treated to an epic Northern Lights show. Designed to deliver the most punishing, varied route across spectacular Icelandic scenery, this is one all hardcore trail runners should have on their bucket list.

Location: Akureyri, Iceland

Distance: 155 miles

Terrain: Multi Terrain

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6. ULTRA-TRAIL DU MONT BLANC, CHAMONIX

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Probably the most iconic of all trail races, this 104-mile ultra sets out from festive Chamonix, circumnavigating Mont Blanc with a staggering 30,000 feet ascent. Representing the pinnacle of ultra trail running, UTMB is one of the world’s most difficult but popular trail races. With an elite field and qualification now required for entry, a place at UTMB represents miles upon miles of endurance training - and yet half of those who start won’t make the finish line. Known for its camaraderie and festive atmosphere, this race is a celebration of all that is endurance running and human achievement.

Location: Chamonix, French Alps

Distance: 104 miles

Terrain: Mountain Trail

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SportsShoes is committed to organising the most exciting and unique races, whether it's on the track, road or trail. Keen to find out more? Then check out our Races category for more information about events, latest news and results. Because it's no fun standing still.