Trail races in Basque Country — May 2026
The Basque Country is the birthplace of Spanish skyrunning with the legendary Zegama-Aizkorri. Green mountains, technical trails and an Atlantic climate that challenges even the most prepared runners.
2 races scheduled
Season essentials
Get ready for spring racing
Shoes, poles and a pack: the essentials before the first long races.
#1 · Best OverallSalomon Sense Ride 5View on Amazon →(opens in a new tab)
#2 · Best OverallBlack Diamond Distance Carbon ZView on Amazon →(opens in a new tab)
#3 · Best OverallSalomon ADV Skin 12 SetView on Amazon →(opens in a new tab)
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No races match these filters.
For your vertical km
Poles, grippy shoes and a light vest for a 1,000 m climb.
- #1 · Best OverallBlack Diamond Distance Carbon ZView on Amazon →(opens in a new tab)
- #2 · Best OverallSalomon Sense Ride 5View on Amazon →(opens in a new tab)
- #3 · Best OverallSalomon ADV Skin 12 SetView on Amazon →(opens in a new tab)
Some links are affiliate links. If you buy through them, we earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
For a short race
Shoes, socks and sun protection: just what you need to run fast.
- #1 · Best OverallSalomon Sense Ride 5View on Amazon →(opens in a new tab)
#2 · Best OverallCompressport Pro Racing Socks V3.0 TrailView on Amazon →(opens in a new tab)
#3 · Best OverallISDIN Fusion Water Sunscreen SPF 50+View on Amazon →(opens in a new tab)
Some links are affiliate links. If you buy through them, we earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
For a mid-distance race
Shoes, vest and hydration for 21-42 km without suffering.
- #1 · Best OverallSalomon Sense Ride 5View on Amazon →(opens in a new tab)
- #2 · Best OverallSalomon ADV Skin 12 SetView on Amazon →(opens in a new tab)
#3 · Best Gel OverallMaurten Gel 100View on Amazon →(opens in a new tab)
Some links are affiliate links. If you buy through them, we earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
For a long race
Vest, headlamp and nutrition for all those hours in the mountains.
- #1 · Best OverallSalomon ADV Skin 12 SetView on Amazon →(opens in a new tab)
#2 · Best OverallPetzl Iko CoreView on Amazon →(opens in a new tab)- #3 · Best Gel OverallMaurten Gel 100View on Amazon →(opens in a new tab)
Some links are affiliate links. If you buy through them, we earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
For your ultra
A watch with battery to spare, a powerful headlamp and poles: the gear that can't fail.
#1 · Best OverallCoros Pace 3View on Amazon →(opens in a new tab)- #2 · Best OverallPetzl Iko CoreView on Amazon →(opens in a new tab)
- #3 · Best OverallBlack Diamond Distance Carbon ZView on Amazon →(opens in a new tab)
Some links are affiliate links. If you buy through them, we earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
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Share this view(opens in a new tab)May2026
2
Zegama-Aizkorri
Zegama · Basque Country
42 · 4.5 kmElite
Mitxarro Bira
Araia · Basque Country
27.5 · 14 kmIntermediate
Explore by country, month and goal
Climate in Basque Country: The Atlantic climate means frequent rain year-round, but also mountains that are always green and mild temperatures. There's no truly bad season for running, though November to February combines rain with short days. From May to September days are long and temperatures pleasant (15-25 °C), though rain can appear without warning. Running here always requires a waterproof jacket in your pack — but that mud and mist are part of the Basque character.
Race summary
2
Races
4.5 – 42 km
Distance range
550 – 2,736 D+
Elevation range
May
Race months
Difficulty
Tips for running in Basque Country in may
Sun protection: the sun is already strong in May. SPF 50+ cream, visor cap and sunglasses are essential.
If your race is in high mountains, still bring thermal layers: at high altitudes temperatures can drop below 5 °C.
May has a high volume of races: plan carefully if you have multiple objectives to avoid overtraining.
Race map
Click a marker to view race details.
Scheduled races
FeaturedPhoto: Zegama-AizkorriZegama-Aizkorri
Zegama
42K and VK through the Aizkorri range — the most legendary skyrunning race in Spain
Photo: Mitxarro BiraMitxarro Bira
Araia
27.5K and 14K through the Sierra de Altzania in the Aizkorri-Aratz Natural Park
Essential trail running gear
Must-have gear to prepare for your mountain races
Black Diamond
Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z
Ultralight carbon Z-pole foldable trekking poles. 137 g per pole in 110 cm length, 33 cm folded. EVA grip and adjustable strap. The trail running reference.
Hoka
Hoka Speedgoat 7
The best-selling trail shoe in the US and an absolute ultra-trail classic. Max Hoka cushioning, a Vibram Megagrip outsole with 5 mm lugs for grip in mud and technical terrain, and a snug Matryx upper. Built to eat up kilometres without punishing your legs in long races.
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