How to Choose Your First Trail Race Distance: 10K, Half or 50K

Quick answer: Choose your first trail race by the time you can comfortably run on trails today, not by the distance you would like to say you finished. If trails are new to you, a trail 10K or shorter race is a gentle first step. When your long trail runs get close to the time a half marathon course would take you, a trail half is a good goal. Keep a 50K for when you have finished a shorter trail race and built up long runs over several months.

Why time matters more than distance

Trail distances are not like road distances. Climbing, technical ground and weather can make a trail 10K take much longer than a road 10K. Read each race's total climb, terrain and cut-off times, and compare them with the time you already spend on trails.

Trail 10K or shorter: a gentle first step

• Good if you are new to trails or come from road running; see switching from road to trail.
• You learn race-day routines, aid stations and pacing on climbs with little risk.
• Gear is simple: often water, a phone and maybe a light layer.

Trail half marathon: the step up

• Good once you are running trails regularly and your long runs are getting close to the time the race will take.
• You will usually carry water and fuel and need to eat on the move.
• Training plan: how to train for your first trail half marathon.

50K: your first ultra

• Good after at least one shorter trail race and a steady build-up of long runs.
• Fuel, water, required gear and time on feet all become part of the plan.
• Read how to pick your first ultramarathon and the 50K training plan.

Questions to ask about any race

• How much total climb, and how technical is the terrain?
• What are the cut-off times, and can I meet them comfortably?
• How far apart are the aid stations?
• Is there a required gear list? See the race checklist.
• How many weeks do I have to train?

What to carry for each distance

Shorter races with aid stations usually need only water, a phone and fuel, which fits a 5L vest like the ROOT5. Longer races with more required gear may need the ROOT8. For more detail, see what to carry from 5K to 50K.

FAQ

Can I skip straight to a trail half marathon?

You can, if your long runs already cover the time the race will take. A shorter trail race first helps you learn trail pacing and race-day routines.

Can I walk in a trail race?

Yes. Hiking steep climbs is normal in trail racing; see when to run and when to hike uphill.