RUN THE TRAILS
TRAIL RUNNING DIFFICULTY LEVEL GUIDE
At Run the Trails, our levels are designed to help you understand your trail-running comfort zone and choose a journey that feels just right. Each level reflects how the terrain feels, the kind of effort involved, and the trail experience you can expect—so you can pick a product that matches your running style and the adventure you want.
Perfect For
Light, scenic runs focused on discovery rather than challenge.
Your Current Weekly Training
- Distance: 15–25 km / 9–15 mi
- Elevation: ≤ 300 m / ≤ 1,000 ft
- Terrain: Park trails, smooth paths, gentle climbs
- Experience: New to trail run or easing back in
Your Trail Run Profile
You run regularly and love being outdoors. You’re comfortable on gentle trails, small hills and unpaved paths. Expect relaxed paces and plenty of scenery.
Perfect For
Runners who want adventure without intense difficulty.
Your Current Weekly Training
- Distance: 25–40 km / 15–25 mi
- Elevation: 300–800 m / 1,000–2,625 ft
- Terrain: Steps, dirt paths, short technical sections
- Experience: 2–4 hours on varied terrain
Your Trail Run Profile
You’re confident on mixed terrain and don’t mind steady climbs. You can run a couple of hours at an easy-to-moderate effort, with occasional rocky or technical sections.
Perfect For
Strong runners seeking iconic & demanding routes without race-day pressure.
Your Current Weekly Training
- Distance: 35–55 km / 22–34 mi
- Elevation: 800–1,200 m / 2,625–3,940 ft
- Terrain: Steep climbs, rocky sections, longer efforts
- Experience: 3–6 hours
Your Trail Run Profile
You train consistently and handle sustained climbs, stairs, and varied footing well. Longer trail days are manageable, and you’re steady for 3–5 hours.
Perfect For
Advanced runners craving challenging terrain and serious elevation.
Your Current Weekly Training
- Distance: 50–80+ km / 31–50+ mi
- Elevation: 1,200–2,000+m / 3,940–6,600+ ft
- Terrain: Technical, steep, sustained climbs
- Experience: Long mountain days or ultra-style training
Your Trail Run Profile
You thrive on steep elevation, technical footing, and long days in the mountains. You like big efforts & big rewards.