Skyrunning in the Tatra Mountains
Tatra Running Festival, an event appreciated by the World Mountain Running Association.
races / discover
Tatra Skymarathon is part of the Tatra Running Festival, a unique event taking place in the heart of the Tatra Mountains. One of the most beautiful and competitive mountain races in Poland, it is also included in the World Cup in this discipline. The 40-kilometer route can be briefly described as two long runs uphill to over 2,000 m above sea level and two long runs downhill. All this with an average slope of around 30%. During the run, there are many sections with high exposure, and the sum of the elevations on the runs uphill is over 3,500 m. This is one of the few opportunities in Poland to compete on technically difficult routes in high-mountain terrain. The loop along which the route runs leads along the hiking trails of the Polish Western Tatras. In addition, it is marked at the crossroads and at critical points with flags to facilitate navigation. There are two refreshment points along the route, and at the finish line we can also use an additional meal.
In addition to the marathon, there is also the easy and fast Tatra Trail, 19 km long. People who like shorter distances, those starting to run in the mountains, as well as Nordic walking enthusiasts will find something for themselves here.
What distinguishes this festival is the organizer’s care to maintain the highest standards of the competitions, which did not go unnoticed by the World Mountain Running Association and the main race was included in the World Cup series organized by WMRA. Participation in the run is an opportunity to get acquainted with the routes of the Western Tatras, which with domed peaks, extensive ridges and deep valleys are definitely gentler than the High Tatras. And the festival itself, which takes place in the summer scenery and lasts all weekend, is a real attraction not only for the runners themselves, but also for their families and friends cheering for them. Great fun and unforgettable moments guaranteed.
Event website: tatraskymarathon.pl
Photography: UltraLovers Jacek Deneka