EcoTrail Paris 2026: The Urban Trail that Finishes at the Foot of the Eiffel Tower

The EcoTrail Paris is much more than just a race: it's an invitation to rediscover the Île-de-France region through its trails, forests, and iconic landmarks, all with an eco-responsible approach. Since its creation in 2008, this event has become the launchpad into trail running for thousands of runners from the Paris region and beyond. With its legendary finish on the first floor of the Eiffel Tower (for the 80 km) or at the Pont d'Iéna, the EcoTrail offers an experience that few races in the world can claim.

The History of EcoTrail Paris: From a Dream to a Benchmark

It all began in 2007, when a group of passionate trail runners decided to prove that you can run in the heart of nature without leaving the Paris region. On February 16, 2008, the first edition was launched with a single format: an 80 km race from Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines to the Eiffel Tower. It was a bold gamble, but it was an immediate success. The idea of crossing forests, royal parks, and finishing at the foot of the world's most famous monument captivated trail runners from all over France.

Since then, the event has continued to grow. In nearly twenty years, EcoTrail Paris has evolved from a single race into a true trail running festival, now bringing together nearly 17,000 participants across all its events. The partnership with Salomon, its UTMB Index race status, and the support of the ONF (French National Forests Office) have solidified its position as an unmissable event on the French trail running calendar.

2026 Edition: March 21st and 22nd

The 2026 edition of the Salomon EcoTrail Paris will be held on March 21st and 22nd, 2026 in the west of the Paris region. This edition marks a significant milestone with the consolidation of the new 120 km format, launched to offer ultra-trail runners a benchmark distance in the Île-de-France. In total, 9 events are offered: 7 trail races and 2 Nordic walks, with formats accessible to all levels, from complete beginners to seasoned ultra-runners.

The Routes: From the 10 km Discovery to the 120 km Ultra

120 km Trail – The Ultimate Experience

The ultimate ultra-distance reference for EcoTrail Paris 🔥 This 120.1 km course with 2,000 m of elevation gain starts from the majestic Château de Rambouillet and crosses the Chevreuse Valley, its iconic castles, and the national forests of the western Paris region before reaching the Pont d'Iéna. With 95% of the route in nature, a cut-off time of 21 hours and 15 minutes, and a limited field of 2,000 runners, it's the ultimate challenge for long-distance enthusiasts. The start is between 9:00 and 9:15 AM on Saturday morning, for a finish in the Parisian night.

80 km Trail – The Historic Distance

The flagship race of EcoTrail since 2008 💪 81.8 km and 1,200 m of elevation gain from the Colline d'Élancourt to the first floor of the Eiffel Tower. It's the only race in the world that finishes inside the Iron Lady! 92% of the course takes place in nature, despite its route running through the heart of the Île-de-France region. With a finisher rate of 78%, a cut-off time of 13 hours and 15 minutes, and a field of 3,000 participants, it's a demanding yet accessible format for experienced trail runners. This race is a qualifier for the UTMB (20K, 50K, and 100K categories).

45 km Trail – The Versailles Challenge

Starting from the gardens of the Palace of Versailles: you couldn't dream of a better start line. This intermediate format offers a great step up for runners who have already completed a 30 km race and are looking to take on a new challenge. The course follows the hillsides and forests between Versailles and Paris, with a variety of terrain that requires adaptability.

35 km Trail – The New Format

A new addition to the lineup, the 35 km race offers 800 m of positive elevation gain between the Domaine National de Saint-Cloud and the heights of Meudon. It's a perfect format for runners who find the 30 km a bit short but aren't quite ready for the 45 km. It's the right compromise between accessibility and physical commitment.

30 km Trail – The Most Popular Format

Starting point: the Terrace of the Paris-PSL Observatory, a location usually closed to the public. This format is the most popular at the event because it allows participants to experience all the specific features of trail running (technical paths, forest sections, climbs) in a manageable format for a regular runner. This is often where the EcoTrail adventure begins ✨

20 km and 10 km Trails – The Nature Initiation

The two shortest formats start from the Domaine National de Saint-Cloud. The 20 km is designed to be 100% nature and accessible to everyone, ideal for road runners who want to get a taste of trail running in an exceptional setting. The 10 km, on the other hand, is perfect for a first trail experience: a festive atmosphere, a fast-rolling course, and that unique feeling of running in a forest at the gates of Paris.

20 km and 10 km Nordic Walks

EcoTrail isn't just for runners. The two Nordic walking formats allow participants to enjoy the natural heritage of the Paris region at their own pace, in a friendly atmosphere. It's also an excellent gateway to trail running for fitness walkers.

Why EcoTrail Paris is Unique

A Legendary Finish

Crossing the finish line on the first floor of the Eiffel Tower after an 80 km effort is a moment that every finisher describes as unforgettable. Even for the other distances, finishing at the Pont d'Iéna facing the illuminated Tower (for those finishing at night) remains a memory etched for life. Few races in the world offer such a setting for the final stretch.

92% to 95% Nature Right in the Heart of Paris

This is EcoTrail's masterstroke: managing to design routes that are almost entirely on trails and forest paths while being in the Île-de-France region. The forests of Meudon, Saint-Cloud, Fausses-Reposes, Versailles, and Rambouillet offer an unexpected playground for those who only know Parisian asphalt. Runners cross highly varied landscapes: undergrowth, hillsides, riverbanks, royal parks... almost without ever seeing a car 🌲

A Pioneering Eco-Responsible Commitment

Eco-friendliness is in EcoTrail's DNA. Since its inception, the organization has advocated for trail running that respects the environment: mandatory personal cups (15 cl minimum), zero-waste awareness at aid stations, a partnership with the ONF to preserve the trails, and strong encouragement to use public transport to get to the start lines (RER, Transilien). The word "Eco" isn't just a marketing gimmick; it's the founding philosophy of the event.

Practical Tips for Your EcoTrail

Preparing Effectively

EcoTrail takes place in March, which means winter training. Weather conditions can be highly variable: rain, mud, cold mornings, or a beautiful spring day. Plan for specific training on muddy trails and don't hesitate to include forest runs starting in December. If you're aiming for the 80 km or 120 km, a structured 16 to 24-week training plan is highly recommended, with a gradual increase in volume and elevation sessions.

Mandatory Gear

All trail formats require minimum equipment: 1.5 L of water, food reserves, a 15 cl cup, a headlamp (essential for the 80 and 120 km), a reflective armband, a survival blanket, a charged mobile phone, and an ID. Checks are frequent, and penalties range from 30 seconds to disqualification. Do not neglect the headlamp: on the 120 km, you will be running at night 🔦

Getting to the Start Lines by Public Transport

The organization provides free shuttles from the RER and Transilien train stations near each start line. For the 80 km, the RER C to Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines drops you off just a stone's throw from the shuttle. For the 120 km, the Transilien N line serves Rambouillet station. This is consistent with the event's eco-responsible philosophy and saves you the hassle of parking.

Managing Your Race Smartly

The EcoTrail profile is relatively fast-rolling for a trail race (between 15 and 17 m/km of elevation gain depending on the format), but the muddy March trails can significantly slow you down. Start cautiously, especially if it's your first trail race. Keep the cut-off times in mind – 13h15 for the 80 km and 21h15 for the 120 km – and pace yourself between aid stations. The final section along the Seine quays is often when emotions run high: enjoy it, you've earned it 😊

Practical Information and Prices

Registration for the 2026 edition opened on June 23, 2025, and closes on February 27, 2026. Prices vary depending on the distance:

• 10 km: from €31
• 20 km: around €40
• 30 km: around €55
• 35 km: around €60
• 45 km: around €70
• 80 km: around €90
• 120 km: €120

The event is a UTMB Index race, which means that the long formats (80 km and 120 km) allow you to earn points for UTMB qualifications in the 20K, 50K, and 100K categories. A significant advantage for those aiming for Chamonix.

The EcoTrail Atmosphere: Much More Than a Race

What strikes you when you participate in EcoTrail for the first time is the atmosphere. Far from the elitism of some events, here you'll find a mix of runners of all levels, from beginners discovering trail running in the 10 km to seasoned ultra-runners on the 120 km. The spirit is one of mutual support and kindness. The volunteers are known for their warm welcome, the aid stations are generous, and the finish in front of the Eiffel Tower creates a rare sense of community among all finishers.

The start-finish village features a trail running expo with partners (Salomon, i-Run, MAIF, SodaStream...), entertainment, and the option to pick up your bib on race day for certain formats. It's also an opportunity to discover the new gear for the upcoming trail season.

In summary, EcoTrail Paris is a must-do event on the French trail running calendar. Whether you're a road runner looking to discover trail running, a trail runner seeking UTMB qualification, or simply someone who dreams of crossing a finish line at the foot of the Eiffel Tower, there's a format for you. See you on March 21st and 22nd, 2026, on the trails of the Paris region 🏃