Have you challenged yourself by signing up for a mountain trail race? Would you like to take it a step further by swapping hiking for mountain running? Mountain running has some specific aspects to keep in mind. To run under good conditions, every runner needs proper equipment. If you’re looking for inspiration, here are some mountain races in France with various difficulty levels.
Features of mountain running
Whether in summer or winter, there’s never a bad season to try mountain running. Keep in mind that the topography plays an important role, as the changing terrain includes many elements that increase course difficulty (stones, puddles, etc.). Weather is also crucial, especially since temperatures can drop quickly. While this physical activity offers a sense of well-being and freedom, it is intended for healthy individuals with good cardiovascular capacity.
- Mountain races: Races lasting about 1 hour, with a minimum elevation gain of 500 meters.
- Green courses: Relatively easy, up to 30 kilometers, suitable for many runners.
- Trail running: Foot races on nature trails, with significant elevation gain. Trails can be short (from 20 km) or extremely long (over 70 km, called ultra-trails).
Equipment for mountain running and trail
Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a cap (or a hat if it’s very cold) are essential for mountain running. Here are the main recommendations from Sport 2000 mountain and trail experts:
- If running on relatively flat trails, you can use your regular running shoes as long as they provide good ankle support and are reasonably waterproof. For uneven terrain with steep elevation, choose trail-specific shoes (thick, rugged soles, able to handle mud or snow). Also select shoes based on your weight, with adequate cushioning (limited cushioning for those under 80 kg; more cushioning for heavier runners, those with back issues, or for long distances).
- Prefer shoes designed for mountain running or trail (with higher uppers for impact protection) that are grippy and waterproof in all weather conditions, while allowing your feet to breathe.
- Wear breathable synthetic clothing to wick moisture. Bring a lightweight jacket for bad weather, waterproof yet warm enough.
- A not-too-large backpack (maximum 15 liters for ultra-trails) is recommended.
- Invest in a headlamp for night running and a safety blanket.
- Carry water in a practical bottle (possibly in a belt) and a mobile phone for emergencies.
Note that for organized races, some equipment is mandatory, as well as a medical certificate during registration. Always check the required gear before starting.
Selected mountain race courses
French mountains offer numerous trails, ranging from easy to challenging. In the Alps, Pyrenees, Jura, Massif Central, or Vosges, you will find plenty of options while enjoying the surrounding nature.
Mont-Blanc Marathon
Running a mountain marathon is more demanding than a flat course, but the stunning scenery will make you forget the difficulty of high-altitude terrain.
Not ready for the full distance? You can run 10 or 23 kilometers, or even a 90-kilometer course.
For the ultimate challenge, the UTMB (Ultra Trail du Mont-Blanc), starting annually from Chamonix, is a 171 km trail with 10,000 meters of positive elevation gain. Only for experienced runners!
Maxi-Race
This race takes place around Lake Annecy, near renowned resorts like Le Grand-Bornand and La Clusaz. Maxi-Race events alternate between distance and time challenges and can be run solo or in teams. The shortest course is 16 km, the longest 110 km.
Grand Raid des Pyrénées
A classic mountain race, the Grand Raid des Pyrénées allows participants to run between 40 and 160 km while discovering the Néouvielle Nature Reserve.
La Flégère
Ideal for beginners, this trail is accessible by chairlift. La Flégère combines glacier views with trails featuring limited elevation gain.
Les Portes de Cristol
The Portes de Cristol trail starts at Serre-Chevalier in the Hautes-Alpes. Enjoy Lake Cristol and the spectacular Écrins Massif while covering nearly 1000 meters of positive elevation gain.
Haut-Jura Trail
The Alps and Pyrenees are not the only mountain ranges for running. The Jura mountains also host events such as the Haut-Jura Trail, featuring 21 courses ranging from easy to difficult, with options for a half-vertical kilometer from Saint-Claude and a vertical kilometer from Septmoncel – Les Molunes.