Wales is being hailed as a trail running paradise, offering everything from mountain climbs and rugged coastlines to rolling countryside and woodland paths. For runners keen to leave the city roads behind, the country provides routes to suit all abilities, whether they prefer technical scrambles or faster flowing terrain.
The R4W Group, which includes Run 4 Wales and Always Aim High Events, has highlighted a series of major events for 2026 designed to showcase the very best of Welsh trail running.
One of the standout fixtures is Rabbit Run Wales, which returns on Saturday 18 July with an expanded programme. Alongside the original 12K route, organisers have added two new distances. The popular 40K course introduced last year has now been extended to a full marathon distance of 42.2K, while a brand new 65K ultra route has also been launched.
Both the Rabbit Marathon and Rabbit Ultra will include the much loved sections through the private grounds of the Merthyr Mawr estate, the famous river crossing and the descent of the Big Dipper, the highest sand dune in Wales. The longer routes will also take runners along the Glamorgan Heritage Coast, passing dramatic cliffs, secluded coves and picturesque villages.
Another highlight is the Snowdonia Trail Marathon Eryri, taking place across the weekend of 11 to 12 July. The event explores the renowned trails and tough climbs of Eryri National Park and offers distances for all abilities, including a 10K, half marathon, marathon, ultra marathon and a demanding 24 hour race. The course takes in the highest mountain in Wales and is regarded as one of the most challenging trail events in the UK, rewarded with spectacular views.
On Sunday 12 April, Ogwen Yr Helgi Du, meaning The Black Hound, will test runners across 40K, 25K and 15K races. Covering some of the highest mountains in England and Wales, the skyline event features epic trails and technical terrain. Organisers say the race is ideal for experienced trail runners while still offering enough support for those looking to progress to more serious mountain challenges.
The final event in the series is the Anglesey Trail Half Marathon and 10K on Sunday 1 November. Set in the stunning surroundings of Newborough Forest and Traeth Llanddwyn, the route winds through woodland, forest tracks and sandy trails. Runners will enjoy views towards the Llyn Peninsula and the mountains of Eryri, on a course that once hosted the Commonwealth Mountain and Ultra Distance Running Championships.
With such a varied calendar, organisers believe Wales continues to strengthen its reputation as one of the best destinations in the UK for off road running adventures.
