About This Event
The Xtrail Kenting by UTMB leads runners deep into the untamed wilderness of Taiwan's Hengchun Peninsula, offering an unparalleled trail experience in the region. Beginning at the seaside and climbing into the mountains, the course unveils the peninsula's lesser-known side, connecting Kenting's iconic beaches with sweeping grasslands, dense forests, rolling hills, river valleys, stony riverbeds, and natural gorges formed by coral limestone. This tropical outdoor paradise presents a challenging environment described as hot, harsh, humid, and runnable. The route traverses rugged terrain where runners experience the raw vitality of the tropical landscape, making it a distinctive addition to the UTMB World Series. The race showcases Taiwan's diverse natural beauty, from coastal areas to mountainous terrain, all within the unique ecosystem of the Hengchun Peninsula.
Choose Your Distance
2K
A gentle introduction to trail running designed for families and young runners. The minimal elevation and short distance make this perfect for experiencing the event community while keeping things fun and accessible.
11K
The 11K route showcases Kenting's diverse landscape within a compact distance. Runners move between different environments as the course winds through sections of coastal trail and shaded forest paths. The mixed terrain demands attention to footing while remaining approachable for those with solid fitness but limited technical trail experience. Kenting's tropical location means humidity remains a constant factor, particularly as the morning sun gains strength. The varied terrain provides natural rhythm changes, though specific elevation details are not published for this distance. Coastal sections may offer ocean breezes, while forested stretches provide welcome shade.
26K
The route explores the ecological diversity of Kenting National Park, Taiwan's oldest protected area where monsoon forests meet coral limestone formations. Expect technical footing on roots and rock, brief punchy climbs through shaded sections, and exposed stretches where the subtropical sun hits hard. The mixed terrain keeps runners engaged—smooth running rarely lasts long before the next technical demand.
50K
The route explores the Hengchun Peninsula's diverse geography, beginning near the coast and working inland through multiple terrain zones. Runners encounter coastal sections with ocean views, transition through agricultural lowlands, and push into forested mountain terrain as the course gains elevation. The mixed surface includes established trails, occasional technical sections, and stretches of more runnable terrain. Navigation follows marked routes through Kenting National Park's southern reaches, where tropical vegetation and geological features create varied running conditions throughout the distance.
98K
The 98K route traverses the length of Kenting National Park, linking coastal sections with inland trails through protected forest and agricultural areas. Runners encounter mixed terrain that shifts from maintained park paths to more technical singletrack, with sustained sections along exposed ridgelines offering views across the peninsula. The course connects multiple ecosystems characteristic of Taiwan's southern lowlands, from wind-sculpted coastal vegetation to tropical broadleaf forest. Tropical conditions persist throughout the course, with limited shade on exposed coastal segments where wind exposure varies with weather patterns. The mixed terrain requires adaptable pacing, and multiple aid stations support runners through the extended distance. Navigation follows marked trails through the national park system, though runners should expect tropical trail conditions including humidity-softened surfaces and variable footing.