If you’re new to running, or just curious about the sport, you may wonder what exactly defines an ultra runner and how it differs from a trail runner. Trail running and ultra running often intersect, but they’re not the same thing. Let’s explore the nuances of each, and see how one leads into the other. We also take a look at fell running and how the three compare to road running.
Updated Oct 24
What is Trail Running?
Trail running is an exhilarating shift away from the flat, predictable surfaces of pavement and city streets, taking runners deep into nature along dirt paths, rocky terrain, mountain routes, and forest trails. Unlike road running, where you’re often navigating smooth paths amid traffic and city noise, trail running immerses you in the natural world. Picture yourself weaving through dense woods, dashing along winding paths that rise and fall with the land, or climbing challenging ascents to reach scenic overlooks. This is trail running—it’s a sport that celebrates the rugged and the wild.
Trail running isn’t just about the physical challenge; it’s also a sensory experience. You’re surrounded by the sights and sounds of nature: birdsong, rustling leaves, and panoramic views of valleys, rivers, or mist-covered hills. The fresh air, open spaces, and a refreshing absence of urban noise bring a unique sense of freedom and peace that’s hard to match. Plus, each run offers a new adventure. From unexpected wildlife encounters to changing seasonal scenery, trail running is as much about connection to nature as it is about the run itself.
Because trails can vary widely in terms of difficulty, it’s a versatile sport for all levels. Beginners might start on gentler trails through local parks or nature reserves, while more seasoned runners may head for rugged mountain paths or steep, technical terrain that challenges both stamina and agility. Trail running trains your mind as much as your body, sharpening focus as you adapt to uneven surfaces, roots, and rocks beneath your feet. It’s a dynamic, ever-evolving experience—trail running isn’t just a workout; it’s an adventure every time.
Trail Running in All Seasons
Contrary to some articles, trail running isn’t limited to a specific season—any dedicated trail runner will tell you that trails are spectacular year-round. Sure, summer offers clear paths, but autumn, winter, and spring bring their own magic, from colorful foliage to snowy or muddy challenges. A good trail run in the rain or snow is exhilarating, and for many runners, that feeling of conquering challenging elements is as satisfying as the run itself. Plus, a steaming coffee (and perhaps cake) afterwards feels all the more rewarding!
Some of the best trail runs happen in inclement weather—whether it’s pouring rain, heavy snow, or chilly winds. These runs might be muddier, colder, and more challenging, but they’re also invigorating. Reaching the top of a hill with the rain in your face and a view across misty valleys is an experience that’s hard to beat. While it may be safer and more sociable to run trails in summer, show us a serious trail runner who only goes out three months a year!
What is Ultra Running?
While trail running is defined by terrain, ultra running is defined by distance. A marathon clocks in at 26.2 miles (42 kilometers), so any race longer than that is considered an “ultra marathon.” Most ultras start at around 50 kilometers (31 miles), though some events cover distances of 30 miles, which is slightly less than 50k but still commonly considered an ultra. In fact, many ultra runners start their journey with a 50k, and for some, it’s just the beginning of a lifelong love affair with extreme distances.
Experienced ultra runners often aim for distances of 50 miles, 100 kilometers, or even 100 miles. Hardcore enthusiasts may argue that true ultras start at 100 miles or with multi-day events. But there’s no need to downplay shorter ultra distances—completing any ultra, whether it’s 30, 50, or 100 miles, is a monumental achievement.
The Unique World of Ultra Marathons
Unlike a marathon, where the route is often flat and predictable, ultra races vary widely. You might be running 50 miles with 7,500 feet of elevation gain, or another race of the same distance could have twice that. Each race is unique, not only in distance but also in terrain, elevation, and scenery. Road ultras exist, but trail ultras are the real adventure—taking runners through remote mountains, rugged coastlines, and lush forests.
Some ultras have gained iconic status, like the UTMB (Ultra Trail Mont Blanc) and the Western States 100. Both are prestigious, challenging races that attract runners from around the globe. Other popular ultra events include local races, like the Mendips Butcombe Trail Run in the UK, which offers 56 miles of stunning landscapes and 7,500 feet of elevation.
Trail vs. Ultra: Where’s the Line?
For many ultra runners, defining an ultra isn’t just about distance but also about the grit it takes to complete it. Some pros believe 100 miles is the true ultra distance, while others see any ultra as a feat worth celebrating. Just look at ultra-running legends like Courtney Dauwalter, whose achievements inspire runners worldwide to take on their own ultra challenges, whether it’s a 50k, 50-miler, or the elusive 100-mile mark.
Running an ultra doesn’t require you to hit 100 miles—many runners manage to balance ultra training with demanding jobs and family commitments. For those who enjoy back-to-back long weekend runs or backcountry adventures, trail running and ultra running may be the perfect match. Even if your goal isn’t 100 miles, if you’ve run anything over marathon distance, you’ve earned the title of ultra runner!
And What About Fell Running?
Fell running is a distinctive and demanding form of off-road running that takes place in upland or mountainous terrain, particularly in the United Kingdom. The sport gets its name from the Norse word for hill or mountain, “fell,” and is most commonly associated with regions like the Lake District, Pennines, and Scottish Highlands. Unlike trail running, which often follows well-marked paths, fell running typically involves navigating steep climbs and sharp descents across rugged, often pathless landscapes. The emphasis on navigation skills is a hallmark of the sport, as runners may need to rely on a map and compass to find their way, especially in remote areas or challenging weather conditions. This blend of physical endurance, technical skill, and self-reliance makes fell running a unique test of both body and mind. Often, fell races are quite short – some even only 3 or 4 miles involving an ascent up one side of a mountain and descent down the other.
The appeal of Fell Running lies in its raw connection to nature and its community-driven culture. Runners embrace the minimalist ethos of the sport, carrying only essential gear such as waterproofs and navigation tools to prepare for unpredictable weather. Whether battling rain, fog, or snow, the experience of running in wild and untamed landscapes is exhilarating and deeply rewarding. Rooted in local traditions, many fell races are tied to rural fairs or festivals, fostering a strong sense of camaraderie and community. While it’s a challenging pursuit, fell running welcomes participants of all levels, from adventurous beginners to seasoned athletes seeking to push their limits. For those drawn to the thrill of rugged terrain and the beauty of remote hills, fell running offers an unforgettable and empowering experience.
How Does the Above Differ from Road Running?
Trail running and fell running differ significantly from road running, offering distinct challenges and experiences. Road running typically takes place on paved surfaces, providing a smooth, predictable terrain that allows runners to focus on speed, rhythm, and endurance. It’s accessible and widely practiced, making it ideal for those who enjoy consistent pacing and well-measured routes, such as marathons or 5Ks. In contrast, trail and fell running take runners off-road, into nature’s unpredictable landscapes, requiring not only physical strength but also mental agility and adaptability.
Trail running involves navigating paths through forests, hills, or mountains, often on uneven terrain that can include mud, rocks, and roots. It prioritizes endurance and an appreciation for natural surroundings over outright speed. Fell running takes this a step further, with its focus on steep ascents and descents over wild, often unmarked terrain. Unlike trail running, fell running frequently demands navigation skills, as courses may lack defined paths. Both off-road disciplines emphasize resilience and a connection to the outdoors, offering a more rugged and adventurous experience than the structured precision of road running.
Conclusion
Trail running, ultra running, and fell running each offer unique ways to experience the joys and challenges of running beyond the pavement. While trail running immerses you in nature’s beauty and variety, ultra running pushes you to test your physical and mental limits over extraordinary distances. Fell running, with its steep climbs, pathless terrain, and emphasis on navigation, offers a raw and rugged connection to the wild. These disciplines may differ in their demands and focus, but they share a common thread: the thrill of adventure and the joy of escaping the predictable.
Whether you’re a seasoned road runner looking for a new challenge or a beginner curious about off-road running, there’s a place for you in this diverse and exhilarating world. From the camaraderie of fell racing to the solitude of an ultra trail, these experiences remind us that running is about more than speed or distance—it’s about discovery, resilience, and the freedom of the open trail.
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