The Best Ultra Marathons for Beginners in 2026 | Ultra X
Want to run your first ultra marathon but unsure where to start? We list the best beginner ultra marathons in 2025 and breakdown why each race is perfect for beginners and newcomers.
How to Prepare for Your First Ultra Marathon
Thinking about signing up for your first ultra? You’re not alone.
Ultrarunning can sound intimidating, but the reality is that many events are designed to be welcoming, supportive, and achievable, even if you’ve never run further than a marathon.
Preparing for an ultra involves more than just miles; focus on consistent training, testing your nutrition, and becoming comfortable with trail terrain. Start with shorter distances, like the 12km or 25km options in the Spring Trail Series, to build your confidence.
To help you take that first step, we’ve curated a selection of the most accessible events for 2026, chosen specifically for their manageable terrain and inclusive atmosphere.
Ultra X Morocco: A Beginner Friendly Desert Ultra
Ultra X Morocco is an excellent introduction to ultra-running for those ready to step up to longer distances. Offering a 50km and 110km option, this Half Distance event combines incredible desert scenery with a supportive and well-organised race environment.
The 50km race is particularly beginner-friendly, with relatively flat terrain, moderate elevation, and generous cut-off times, perfect if your goal is simply to keep moving and enjoy the experience.
Sign up to Ultra X Morocco today here.
Thames Path 50km: A Flat and Fast Introduction
If you’re looking for a flat, confidence-building first 50km ultra, the Thames Path race is hard to beat.
Following the famous Thames Towpath, this event focuses on being able to walk, jog, or run, making it welcoming for all abilities. With minimal elevation, excellent support, and multiple distance options available, it’s a great choice for runners transitioning from road races into ultras.
Race to the Stones: The UK’s Most Iconic 50km Trail
One of the UK’s most iconic trail ultras, Race to the Stones offers a supportive introduction to longer trail running.
With a 50km option and a welcoming mix of runners and walkers, the event is all about community and shared experience. The route takes in woodland trails and rolling hills before finishing at the legendary Avebury Stone Circle, a memorable first ultra finish.
South Downs Way 50: A Great Beginner 50 Mile Race
A new addition for 2026, the South Downs Way 50 is ideal for beginners who want a classic 50 mile ultra without technical terrain.
The chalk trails are smooth and runnable, the route is well marked, and the event is known for excellent organisation and support. While there is some climbing, it’s steady rather than steep, making it a great step up from shorter trail races.
Spring Trail Series by Ultra X: The Best Beginner Ultra Marathon in Surrey
The Spring Trail Series is the perfect starting point for anyone new to trail or ultra-running, and in 2026 it’s more accessible than ever.
Taking place in the Surrey countryside, the series now includes a 12km option, alongside 25km and longer distances, making it ideal for complete beginners. The terrain is runnable, the routes are well marked, and the atmosphere is friendly and supportive. Whether you’re testing trail running for the first time or building towards an ultra, this series lets you progress at your own pace.
Sign up to the Spring Trail Series today here.
Want to see more incredible ultra marathons from every continent? In the past we have listed the: