Top Trail Running Spots With The Best Views

By Mandy Burkholder | February 7, 2016

Top Trail Running Spots With The Best Views

Trail running is the ultimate summer outdoor experience. Not only do you gain the strength from running uphill all the time, you also receive the gift of reaching higher places. So this summer, make these epic top trail running spots the forefront of your bucket list. The amazing views alone will keep you on your feet longer!

Boucle Argentière-le Tour-Tré le Champ, Chamonix, France

The mecca of European trail running is undoubtedly Chamonix, France. Take a plane, train, or automobile as fast as your can to experience the most breathtaking (literally) views from across three countries. France, Italy, and Switzerland are at your backdoor, but make sure to give yourself a couple extra days to acclimate and drink plenty of water—these immaculate views come with their own set of challenges!

Imogene Pass, Ouray, Colorado To Telluride, Colorado

The Imogene Pass Run is on every trail runner’s bucket list, and for good reason. This epic trail run dates back to 1974 when six runners decided to create their own trail, calling it the Imogene Pass Mountain Marathon. Starting from Ouray, Colorado (at 7,810 feet), runners tackle 17.1 miles of treacherous geography. Reaching the peak 13,114 feet, the trail then descends into the idyllic town of Telluride. Be forewarned—this monster of a trail is extremely difficult, high in elevation, and not for beginners.

Whistler Mountain, British Columbia, Canada

Thousands of people visit Whistler each winter to enjoy the steep slopes and snowy views, but did you know it’s also a summer haven, too? Trail runners unite each summer to run through the lofty trails on Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains. Running clubs, like the 5 Peaks Club, sponsor epic series races all throughout the mountains. A favorite route amongst locals and professionals alike takes you through the grounds of the 2010 Vancouver Olympic Games.

Matterhorn, Zermatt, Switzerland

Ever dreamt of trail running underneath the towering shadow of the Matterhorn? Good thing it’s entirely possible! Visit Zermatt this summer to experience the extreme views of the Swiss Alps that everyone writes home about. With several organized trail runs to choose from, you’re in good hands if you need help finding the trailhead. Try signing up for the Matterhorn Ultraks Trail Races if you dare—don’t worry, there’s a 16K race if you can’t handle longer distances.

The Isle Of Skye, Scotland

Dramatic landscapes are aplenty on the Isle of Skye in Scotland’s northern reaches. A surprising amount of big-mountain craggy views greet you at every twist and turn, all with the added benefit of near sea level running. The trails are as old and timeless as this historic island, with geographic monuments such as the Old Man of Storr. Don’t miss the Isle of Skye Half Marathon in June!