The XTERRA Snowdonia Eryri 2025 Trail Running event, held in the stunning Snowdonia National Park in North Wales, is a premier trail running race. An event is typically a qualifier event in the Xterra Trail Running World Series, but in 2025 is the acting host of the host site for the XTERRA Trail Running World Championship. This event occurs in one of the UK's most iconic landscapes, offering participants breathtaking views of rugged mountains, glacial valleys, and dramatic lakes.
Xterra Trail World Championship Race Routes:
The event offers various race distances to cater to different skill levels. These typically include a challenging championship course of around 42 km, a half-marathon distance of around 21 km, and a shorter route of 10-12 km for less experienced runners. The courses are known for their technical difficulty, with steep ascents, descents, rocky terrain, and unpredictable weather, making it a true test of endurance and trail-running skills.
- 42 km World Championship Route: This route is designed to challenge elite athletes with significant elevation gains, traversing some of Snowdonia’s most rugged trails.
- 21 km: Perfect for runners seeking a challenge but who may not be ready for the full marathon distance.
- 10-12 km: A more accessible route for those new to trail running or seeking a less intense experience.
Qualifying Requirements:
To compete in the XTERRA Trail Running World Championship race, athletes often must have qualified through other XTERRA Trail events around the globe. The race typically attracts the best of the best in the trail running community, but there are often options for local and amateur runners to participate in different race categories. Detailed qualifying standards can vary year to year, with many athletes aiming to secure their spots through regional XTERRA races.
Location - Snowdonia (Eryri) National Park:
Snowdonia, also known by its Welsh name Eryri, is a vast national park located in northwest Wales, famous for its wild beauty and rugged terrain. Snowdon, the highest peak in Wales, dominates the landscape, and the region is known for its diverse ecosystems, historic sites, and outdoor adventure opportunities. The park offers a perfect backdrop for a challenging trail race, with varied and difficult terrain that pushes runners to their limits. It’s a popular destination for hikers, climbers, and athletes looking to test themselves in a natural environment.
The event is not only a celebration of competitive trail running but also an opportunity for athletes and visitors to experience the rich culture and breathtaking scenery of Wales.