Trail Running in Germany | Top 5 Ultra Marathons | Ultra X
Europe offers some of the most beautiful and hardest ultra marathons. We give our line-up of the best ultra marathons in Europe, spanning Madeira, Greece, Italy, UK and beyond.
The Best Ultra Marathons in Germany
Germany is a country famous for its rich history, stunning castles, and, of course, excellent beer. But for those of us who live for the thrill of the trail, it’s also home to some of Europe’s most exciting ultra marathons. From the rugged beauty of the Bavarian Alps to the mystical Black Forest, Germany offers a range of challenging races that will seriously put your endurance and determination to the test.
What makes Germany stand out isn’t just its diverse landscapes; it’s the warmth and camaraderie of the running community. Whether you’re chasing brutal mountain ascents or scenic long-distance treks, Germany has something here for every trail running enthusiast. Here are some of the best ultra marathons in Germany worth checking out.
Zugspitz Ultratrail
If there’s one ultra marathon that’s become a must-do for mountain lovers, it’s the Zugspitz Ultratrail. Held every June, this event is a true classic and probably Germany’s most famous ultra. The longest route is a beast—108 km with over 5,000 meters of elevation gain, circling Germany’s highest mountain, the Zugspitze. The views are nothing short of breathtaking, with alpine meadows, rocky trails, and snow-capped peaks all making an appearance. This is one for those who like their ultras big, bold, and beautiful.
Rennsteiglauf Supermarathon
Known as the Supermarathon, the Rennsteiglauf is one of Germany’s oldest and most beloved ultra marathons. Every May, runners take on the scenic 73.9 km Rennsteig trail in the Thuringian Forest. The route itself isn’t too intimidating by ultra standards, but the rolling hills and lush forests make it a stunning journey from start to finish. Plus, the festive atmosphere and passionate crowd support create something really special. If you’re new to the ultra scene, this is a great introduction.
Brocken-Challenge
For those who love a real test of mental and physical toughness, the Brocken-Challenge is hard to beat. Held in February, this 80 km winter ultra takes runners from Göttingen to the Brocken, the highest peak in northern Germany. With icy trails, unpredictable weather, and a solid amount of elevation gain, it’s not for the faint-hearted. But knowing that all proceeds go to charity adds an extra layer of motivation. It’s a tough but deeply rewarding experience.
For those who love a real test of mental and physical toughness, the Brocken-Challenge is hard to beat. Held in February, this 80 km winter ultra takes runners from Göttingen to the Brocken, the highest peak in northern Germany. With icy trails, unpredictable weather, and a solid amount of elevation gain, it’s not for the faint-hearted. But knowing that all proceeds go to charity adds an extra layer of motivation. It’s a tough but deeply rewarding experience.
Bieler Lauftage (100 km of Biel)
Alright, this one’s technically just over the border in Switzerland, but it’s so popular with German ultra runners it deserves a mention. The 100 km of Biel, held annually since 1959, is a legendary night race that sees participants running through the dark across beautiful countryside. Starting in the evening and going straight through until morning, the event’s unique atmosphere and long history make it a bucket-list race for many European ultra fans.
Harz-Gebirgslauf
The Harz-Gebirgslauf, held every October, is a true classic in the Harz Mountains. With several distances on offer, the longest route is a 51 km journey through rugged terrain and beautiful forested landscapes. Autumn colors add an extra touch of magic to the experience, but don’t be fooled by the relatively short distance—technical terrain and steep climbs make this one a proper challenge.
Honourable Mentions
Baltic Sea Ultra: A stunning coastal ultra taking runners along the beautiful beaches and cliffs of northern Germany.
Jurasteig Nonstop Ultratrail: A gruelling 239 km course through the limestone landscapes of the Bavarian Jura.
Hexenstieg Ultra: A demanding trail race following the Hexenstieg (Witch’s Trail) through the Harz Mountains, with distances up to 216 km.
Whether you’re chasing personal bests or just looking to enjoy the journey, Germany’s ultra marathon scene offers something for everyone. From the icy trails of the Brocken-Challenge to the jaw-dropping views of the Zugspitz Ultratrail, the variety of events is nothing short of spectacular. And if you’re interested in Ultra X events in Europe or nearby, you can find out more here.