Trail running is one of the most grueling and exhilarating sports, requiring a combination of physical endurance, mental fortitude, and the ability to navigate rugged terrain. Whether they’re scaling steep mountains, racing through dense forests, or enduring ultra-distance challenges, the best trail running athletes in the world have redefined what it means to push the limits of human performance.
Here’s a look at some of the greatest trail running athletes dominating the global stage today—athletes whose achievements and dedication inspire runners worldwide.
1. Kilian Jornet (Spain)
Widely regarded as the greatest trail runner of all time, Kilian Jornet has set records in some of the most prestigious trail and mountain races on the planet. His blend of endurance, speed, and mountain-climbing skills has made him a legend in the sport.
Notable Achievements
UTMB (Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc): 4-time winner (2008, 2009, 2011, 2022).
Hardrock 100: 5-time winner, with record-breaking performances.
Everest Summits: In 2017, Jornet summited Everest twice in one week without supplemental oxygen or fixed ropes.
Records: Multiple fastest known times (FKTs) on iconic mountains, including Mont Blanc and Matterhorn.
Why He’s the Best:
Jornet’s ability to dominate both long-distance ultra-trail races and steep mountain climbs sets him apart. His love for the mountains and his humility make him a true ambassador for the sport.
2. Courtney Dauwalter (USA)
Courtney Dauwalter is redefining what’s possible in women’s trail running—and she’s often outperforming men. Known for her toughness, grit, and ability to run through extreme fatigue, Dauwalter has dominated the ultra-trail running scene.
Notable Achievements
UTMB: 2-time winner (2019, 2021), setting course records.
Western States 100: Winner in 2018 with one of the fastest women’s times in history.
Cocodona 250: Winner in 2023, solidifying her reputation as one of the best ultra-distance runners ever.
Moab 240: Set a course record in 2017, beating the second-place finisher (a man) by over 10 hours.
Why She’s the Best:
Dauwalter’s ability to push through sleep deprivation, brutal terrain, and sheer exhaustion is unmatched. She’s not just one of the best women in trail running—she’s one of the best, period.
3. François D’Haene (France)
A consistent force in ultra-trail running, François D’Haene has built a reputation as one of the most dominant athletes in the sport. Known for his strategic pacing and ability to excel in mountainous terrains, D’Haene has consistently delivered exceptional performances in the world’s toughest races.
Notable Achievements
UTMB: 4-time winner (2012, 2014, 2017, 2021).
Hardrock 100: 3-time winner (2016, 2017, 2021).
John Muir Trail FKT: Set the fastest known time on the 211-mile trail in 2021.
Why He’s the Best:
François’s ability to deliver consistent victories in the most competitive ultra-trail races, coupled with his humility and tactical brilliance, makes him one of the sport’s all-time greats.
4. Jim Walmsley (USA)
Known for his speed and bold racing tactics, Jim Walmsley has brought a competitive edge to trail running. With his incredible performances at both Western States and international races, Walmsley has earned his place among the best in the world.
Notable Achievements
Western States 100: 3-time winner (2018, 2019, 2021), holding the course record of 14:09:28.
UTMB 2023 Champion: Became the first American man to win UTMB, cementing his status as a global trail-running star.
Grand Canyon Rim-to-Rim-to-Rim FKT: Held the fastest known time on this iconic route.
Why He’s the Best:
Walmsley’s blend of road speed and trail toughness, combined with his fearless approach to racing, has made him one of the most exciting athletes to watch in the sport.
5. Nienke Brinkman (Netherlands)
Nienke Brinkman has burst onto the trail running scene as one of the most versatile runners in the sport, excelling in both mountain races and road marathons.
Notable Achievements
Zegama-Aizkorri Marathon: Winner in 2022 with one of the fastest women’s times ever recorded.
UTMB CCC: Winner in 2022, dominating the 100K distance.
Marathon: Set a national record for the Netherlands at the Rotterdam Marathon in 2022 with a time of 2:22:51.
Why She’s the Best:
Brinkman’s rapid rise in trail running has shown her incredible versatility, excelling in both technical mountain races and fast, flat marathons.
6. Ragna Debats (Netherlands/Spain)
A consistent performer in trail running and skyrunning events, Ragna Debats has been a dominant force in the sport for years. Her versatility across distances and terrains makes her one of the best all-around athletes in trail running.
Notable Achievements
Trail World Champion (2018): Won the Trail World Championships in Spain.
Marathon des Sables (2019): Winner of the iconic multi-day desert race.
Skyrunning Series: Consistent top finishes in technical mountain races.
Why She’s the Best:
Ragna’s ability to win on vastly different terrains—from desert sand dunes to alpine peaks—demonstrates her versatility and adaptability.
7. Tom Evans (United Kingdom)
Tom Evans is one of the brightest stars in trail running, known for his smooth stride and tactical brilliance. A former British Army captain, Evans has quickly risen to the top of the ultra-trail scene.
Notable Achievements
UTMB 2022: Third-place finisher in one of the most competitive fields in history.
Western States 2023 Champion: Winner with a blazing time of 14:40:22.
Marathon des Sables: Third-place finisher in his ultra debut.
Why He’s the Best:
Evans’s mix of road speed and trail strength makes him one of the most well-rounded athletes in the sport. His recent victories suggest his best years are still ahead.
8. Ruth Croft (New Zealand)
Ruth Croft has been a dominant force in ultra-trail running, particularly in mountainous and technical races. Her ability to perform on both shorter and longer distances sets her apart as one of the most versatile athletes in the sport.
Notable Achievements
Western States 100: Winner in 2022, becoming one of the fastest women in the race’s history.
UTMB OCC: 2-time winner of the 56K race (2018, 2019).
Tarawera Ultramarathon: Multiple-time champion of this iconic New Zealand race.
Why She’s the Best:
Croft’s dominance across a wide range of distances and her ability to perform under pressure make her one of the most respected athletes in trail running.
9. Tadeo Pivetta (Brazil)
A rising star in the South American trail running scene, Tadeo Pivetta has started making a name for himself in international races. Known for his speed and endurance, he’s one to watch in the coming years.
10. Pau Capell (Spain)
Another Spanish star, Pau Capell, is known for his consistency and tactical approach to ultra-trail running. He’s a former UTMB champion and continues to perform at the highest level in the sport.
Notable Achievements
UTMB 2019: Winner with a dominant solo performance.
Transgrancanaria: 4-time winner.
Western States Top Finisher: Consistent top rankings in the toughest races.
Conclusion: The Best Trail Runners of Our Time
From record-breaking performances to incredible displays of mental and physical strength, these athletes represent the pinnacle of trail running. Whether they’re conquering alpine peaks, desert landscapes, or ultra-long distances, they continue to inspire runners of all levels with their dedication, resilience, and love for the sport.
Trail running isn’t just about the competition—it’s about the connection to nature, the community, and the pursuit of pushing personal limits. These athletes embody all of that and more, leaving a legacy that will inspire generations to come.
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