As a trail runner and race organizer in Taiwan for the past decade, I’ve witnessed firsthand the incredible growth and transformation of the trail running scene. Looking ahead, this year is shaping up to be a landmark year for outdoor sports, with trail running at the forefront. This sport, which I’ve seen evolve and flourish, is now attracting a diverse mix of local and international enthusiasts.
Reflecting on the pandemic years, it’s clear that the enforced isolation and social distancing created a deep longing for outdoor activities. People, once confined indoors, have emerged with a renewed appreciation for nature’s freedom and beauty. As restrictions eased, many, including myself, turned to trail running not just for physical exercise but as a means of adventure and escape.
What makes Taiwan a trail runner’s paradise is its diverse landscapes. From the rugged mountains to serene coastal paths, the natural diversity here is unmatched. This, combined with the growing interest in health and outdoor activities post-pandemic, has set the stage for a significant expansion of our trail running community.
Photo Courtesy of Beast RunnersAP
What’s So Special About Trail Running in Taiwan?
CONNECTION TO NATURE
Photo Courtesy of Runivore
In my experience, trail running in Taiwan offers a truly intimate connection with nature. The trails, often set in lush jungles, take you through streams, up mountains, and along ridges. They’re technical and challenging; a 7km trail can take up to two hours to complete. Take Explore Your Backyard, for instance, a race I’ve been closely involved with, which includes a 1,000-meter elevation gain over just 13km.
The trails here cater to all levels of endurance, from short runs to the 104km Formosa Trail race, featuring a 5,500m elevation gain and a 30-hour limit. Trail running often requires more than just running shoes — a well-equipped pack is essential for safety and comfort.
One aspect I particularly love is the accessibility of trails, even in urban areas like Taipei. You can find solitude and stunning views, such as glimpses of Taipei 101, while being just moments away from the city’s hustle. This makes trail running a uniquely convenient escape.
Photo Courtesy of Runivore
SPOTLIGHT ON KEY TRAIL RUNNING EVENTS
The trail running scene in Taiwan offers a wide range of events, and I’ve seen many of them grow over the years. In Taipei, Explore Your Backyard, which we (Runivore) co-organize with Beast Runners, offers routes for all levels. The Wuzhi Mountain Trail Challenge is another event that showcases the beautiful trails in Taipei’s Shilin District (士林).
Heading to New Taipei City, events like Venture Treks’ Shifen Trail Shihfen District (十分) and the summer Tiger Leopard Trail in Shuangsi District (雙溪) offer breathtaking views and challenging routes. The ChaCha Trail in Yilan County, less known to foreigners but gaining popularity, offers great running experiences.
World-class events like XTERRA in Kenting and the Formosa Trail, a Western States qualifier, are drawing international runners. The Formosa Trail, in particular, has become a festival for over a thousand participants, offering some of Taiwan’s most challenging routes.
HOW TO FIND A RACE FOR YOU
If you’re interested in trail running, I recommend checking out Runner’s Plaza for event listings. The Facebook group The Sarcastic Runners is also a fantastic resource, with discussions on upcoming races and a yearly event calendar. I hope to see you at one of these events, sharing the trails and the experiences that have become a significant part of my life.
Tomasz Hasinski, a seasoned trail runner and race organizer, has called Taiwan home for over a decade. He can be reached at Tom@runivore.com.
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