About This Race
The 46.4K course at Ultra-Trail Mogan serves as the event's mid-distance offering, threading through the Moganshan mountain region approximately 200 kilometers southwest of Shanghai. The route showcases the area's signature bamboo forests and tea plantations while delivering a full mountain experience without the commitment required by the longer UTMB World Series distances. Runners navigate the same technical terrain that defines the event's character but in a more contained format. This distance suits runners transitioning from road marathons to mountain racing, as well as experienced trail runners seeking a challenging day in the mountains without ultra-distance demands. The single-loop format eliminates the mental challenge of repetitive laps while still providing substantial time on course. The spring timing typically offers moderate temperatures for mountain running, though conditions in Zhejiang's subtropical climate can vary. As part of the UTMB World Series, the race attracts an international field while maintaining strong representation from China's growing trail running community. The Moganshan region's accessibility from major eastern Chinese cities makes logistics straightforward, and the area's established tourism infrastructure supports race weekend planning.
The course explores Moganshan's characteristic landscape of bamboo groves, mountain ridges, and rural villages. Runners encounter extended sections through dense bamboo forests on both established trails and more technical singletrack terrain. The mixed surface includes dirt paths, occasional pavement through villages, and rocky sections that require careful footing. Water and aid stations follow UTMB standards throughout the route.
Location
Practical Info
Spring conditions in Zhejiang typically bring moderate temperatures ranging from 10-20°C, though humidity can be high and rain possible in this subtropical climate.
Moganshan offers range of lodging from mountain resorts to guesthouses, with additional options in nearby Deqing County. Early booking recommended as the area is a popular weekend destination from Shanghai and Hangzhou.
Best For
Notable Features
The Moganshan region offers a distinctive setting within the UTMB World Series calendar, combining China's mountain landscapes with the area's historical significance as a former foreign settlement retreat. The bamboo forest sections provide visual appeal and welcome shade, while the course's cultural elements including tea plantations and mountain villages add regional character. The race serves as a qualifying event for UTMB Mont-Blanc, making it strategically valuable for runners building toward Western States or other major ultras.