8 Popular Trail Running Races Across the Americas
Trail running has established major events throughout North and South America, from established ultramarathons to growing regional races. These races attract runners seeking specific challenges, from high-altitude mountain courses to technical forest trails. Each offers distinct terrain and conditions that have built reputations within the trail running community.
Entry requirements, course difficulty, and field size vary significantly between these events. Some require qualifying times and lottery systems, while others welcome runners of all experience levels. Understanding the specific demands of each race helps runners choose appropriate goals and prepare effectively.
Western States 100 - California, USA
The Western States Endurance Run covers 100.2 miles from Olympic Valley to Auburn, California. Held annually in June, it requires 18,090 feet of climbing and 22,970 feet of descending through Sierra Nevada terrain. Entry requires completion of a qualifying ultramarathon and success in a lottery system with approximately 10% acceptance rate for first-time applicants.
The course includes significant temperature variations, from near-freezing starts to potential 110°F heat in lower canyons. Key challenges include the river crossing at Mile 78 and the final climb out of the American River Canyon. Cutoff time is 30 hours, with bronze buckles awarded to all finishers and silver buckles for sub-24-hour times. The race is part of the Grand Slam of Ultrarunning series.
Vermont 100 - Vermont, USA
The Vermont 100 Endurance Race features 100 miles with 17,000 feet of total elevation gain across Vermont's Green Mountains. The course uses approximately 68 miles of dirt roads, 30 miles of horse trails, and minimal pavement. It runs concurrently with a horse race, making it unique among major ultramarathons.
The course crosses over 30 private properties accessible only during race weekend. No major climbs characterize the route, but constant rolling terrain creates cumulative difficulty. Vermont 100 was the first trail race to formally recognize visually and mobility-impaired runners with dedicated awards categories. The 30-hour cutoff and well-stocked aid stations make it accessible to first-time 100-mile runners.
Tenderfoot Boogie - Squamish, British Columbia
The Tenderfoot Boogie takes place in June near Whistler, BC, offering 12km, 26km, and 50km distances. The course runs through the Sea-to-Sky Corridor, starting and finishing at Bayly Park. Runners follow trails along the Cheakamus River, with the longer distances reaching Brandywine Falls and Rainbow Falls.
The 50km course includes approximately 4,500 feet of elevation gain on mostly runnable trails through coastal rainforest. All distances feature views of glacier-fed rivers and the Tantalus Mountain Range. The race includes optional detours to viewpoints, including the famous Whistler Train Wreck. Aid stations are positioned every 8-10 kilometers on longer distances, with the course marked by ribbons and chalk arrows.
Patagonia Run - Argentina
The Patagonia Run takes place annually in April in San Martín de los Andes, offering distances from 10km to 160km (100 miles). The race has been called the largest trail running festival in the Americas, attracting runners from over 40 countries. Courses wind through Lanín National Park and surrounding Andean foothills.
The 100-mile course requires completion within specific time limits and includes mandatory gear requirements for safety. Shorter distances provide entry points for less experienced trail runners. The event includes pre-race activities and serves as a qualifying race for other major international events. Weather conditions can include wind, rain, and temperature variations typical of Patagonian mountain environments.
Ultra Paine - Chile
Ultra Paine occurs annually near Torres del Paine National Park in Chilean Patagonia. The race offers distances from 5km to 50km, with courses running through terrain at 51° south latitude. Routes include views of the Torres del Paine spires, glacial lakes, and the Southern Patagonian Ice Field.
The 50km course involves technical single-track trails, river crossings, and potential weather challenges including high winds. Mandatory gear requirements reflect the remote location and variable conditions. The race attracts an international field seeking one of the southernmost trail running experiences in the world. Limited field sizes maintain environmental impact controls within the national park.
Mount Marathon - Alaska, USA
The Mount Marathon Race in Seward, Alaska covers only 3.1 miles but gains 3,022 feet to the turnaround point. Held annually on July 4th since 1915, it predates most organized trail races in America. The course requires hand-and-foot scrambling on the ascent and controlled sliding on the descent.
No marked trail exists for much of the course—runners choose their own route up the mountain face. The descent involves scree running and, for many participants, sliding on loose rock and dirt. Injuries are common, and the race includes medical stations positioned strategically on the mountain. Entry requires either winning a lottery or achieving qualifying times at other Alaska races.
K42 Patagonia Marathon - Argentina
The K42 Villa La Angostura serves as the South American Trail Running Championship and attracts national teams from across the continent. The 42km course runs through Nahuel Huapi National Park near Bariloche, featuring technical single-track with significant elevation changes. The race is part of the K42 Adventure Marathon Series.
Entry fees reflect the race's championship status and professional-level organization. The course includes stream crossings, forest trails, and viewpoints over Patagonian lakes. Cutoff times are strictly enforced, and the technical terrain requires trail running experience. The event includes shorter distance options for recreational runners.
Leadville Trail 100 - Colorado, USA
The Leadville Trail 100 takes place at altitudes between 9,200 and 12,600 feet in Colorado's Rocky Mountains. The out-and-back course covers 100 miles with 15,600 feet of elevation gain. Held in August, it's part of the Grand Slam of Ultrarunning and requires qualifying race completion for entry.
Altitude effects are significant, with the turnaround at Hope Pass reaching 12,600 feet. Weather can include snow, rain, and temperature swings of 40+ degrees. The 30-hour cutoff and strict aid station time limits eliminate approximately 50% of starters. Pacers are allowed after Mile 50, and crew access is available at several aid stations. The race awards finisher belt buckles and additional recognition for sub-25-hour completion.