Trail des Forts de Besançon
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About the race
The Trail des Forts de Besançon is a multi-format trail event held in and around the green city of Besançon. The 24th edition takes place on 7, 8 and 9 May 2027 and in 2026 gathered 7,850 participants. The courses combine natural trails and urban sections while crossing historic fortifications that are part of a UNESCO listing.
The event offers ten formats and specific features include a long solo race limited to 1,000 runners and several routes that traverse the 18th and 19th century forts. Some courses emphasise heritage passages and technical trails, and one night time trial requires headlamps along ramparts.
Notable course details from the programme:
- 62 km solo limited to 1,000 runners, technical route through UNESCO fortifications.
- 62 km relay in pairs covering the ten forts.
- 42 km marathon format crossing several forts.
- 22 km with 600 m D+ and a finish through the Citadelle UNESCO site.
- 17 km duo along the Doubs, via Fort de Chaudanne and Rosemont, finishing through the Citadelle.
- 11 km chrono and 11 km rando for a city discovery.
- 5.4 km night time trial with 150 m D+ between ramparts.
- Challenge of three events over two days limited to 300 runners.
- Guided Balade Chaudanne walks and kids and parasport 5 km races.
Descriptions above reflect the published programme and participant figures. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
