About This Race
The 78.5K at Ultra-Trail Mogan occupies the middle ground in this UTMB Index race series, offering a genuine ultra-distance experience through the bamboo forests and mountain ridges of Moganshan. The course takes runners through one of eastern China's most historic mountain retreats, where mist-shrouded trails wind past terraced tea plantations and remnants of the region's sword-forging heritage. This distance demands both physical endurance and tactical pacing, requiring runners to manage their effort across varied terrain while remaining alert to technical sections. Moganshan has long served as a summer escape from Shanghai's heat, and the race route showcases why. Runners pass through dense bamboo groves that create natural tunnels of green, cross streams that feed the region's tea cultivation, and traverse ridgelines offering views across the Yangtze River Delta. The terrain shifts frequently between smooth forest paths and more technical rocky sections, keeping runners engaged throughout. This race suits runners ready to commit to ultra distance without the extreme demands of 100K-plus events. The 78.5K distance provides enough challenge to test preparation and strategy while remaining accessible to those stepping up from marathon or 50K distances.
The route explores Moganshan's network of mountain trails, moving through the area's signature bamboo forests and agricultural terraces. Runners encounter the varied terrain that characterizes this region: established trails through forested sections, occasional technical rocky passages, and paths that follow historical routes once used by tea traders. The course passes cultural landmarks including sites associated with the area's traditional sword-making industry, adding historical context to the physical challenge.
While specific elevation data is not available for this distance, Moganshan's topography ensures continuous ups and downs. The mountain's trails rarely run flat for long, requiring runners to manage both climbs and descents throughout the distance.
Location
Practical Info
April in Moganshan typically brings mild spring conditions with temperatures ranging from 10-20°C (50-68°F), though mountain weather can shift quickly with fog and occasional rain common in this season.
Moganshan offers accommodation ranging from mountain guesthouses to boutique hotels, many dating from the area's history as a colonial-era retreat. Nearby Deqing County and Hangzhou (approximately 60km away) provide additional lodging options with good transportation links to the race area.
Best For
Notable Features
Ultra-Trail Mogan brings UTMB's international race standards to one of China's most scenic mountain regions. Moganshan's combination of natural beauty and cultural heritage sets it apart from typical trail races. The bamboo forests create a distinctive racing environment, while the area's history as both a tea-growing region and metallurgical center adds depth beyond the physical challenge. As part of the UTMB World Series, the race attracts an international field while showcasing a region less familiar to many trail runners outside Asia.