Kaçkar by UTMB

An incredible experience at Kaçkar!

What a fantastic discovery and, above all, a real mountain adventure!

The course is beautiful, wild and completely different from what I’m used to, but be prepared because it’s definitely challenging. It’s technical, very steep in places, and the altitude adds another level of difficulty, with the 50K reaching over 2,800 m and the 100K going above 3,200 m.
A little advice: bring your poles and make sure you have the right mountain gear, because the weather can change quickly at altitude and conditions can become tough.

Beyond the race itself, what I really loved was the incredibly warm welcome and kindness of the Turkish people. So many smiles, friendly faces and great encounters throughout the whole trip.
The organisation was also excellent, with a helpful and attentive team. The welcome pack was really generous, and after all that effort, it was great to finish with a beautiful medal and a finisher fleece jacket.
Kaçkar is exactly the kind of trail running experience I love: mountains, sport, adventure, beautiful scenery and, above all, great moments shared with people along the way.

If you enjoy authentic and challenging trails in wild mountain environments, I can definitely recommend this race.

Personally, I’m leaving with some amazing memories and I’m already looking forward to coming back next year! 😍🇹🇷

Kaçkar was one of the most beautiful and memorable trail races I’ve ever experienced. The course takes you through breathtaking mountain landscapes, steep forests, and truly wild terrain. The slogan “Wild is the Trail” perfectly reflects what awaits you on the course.

The race is challenging, with demanding climbs and technical sections, but every step is rewarded with spectacular views. What impressed me most, besides the scenery, were the refreshment points. Despite having only two aid stations, they were exceptionally well stocked with everything a trail runner could need: sweet, sour and salty snacks, plenty of drinks, and even female hygiene products. It was honestly one of the best refreshment setups I have seen at any race (incl. ironman) so far.

The atmosphere before, during, and after the race was incredible. I met inspiring trail runners, exchanged stories, and we pushed each other through the toughest sections of the course. The sense of community made the whole experience even more special.

If you’re looking for an authentic mountain adventure with amazing people, outstanding organization, and unforgettable scenery, I can highly recommend Kaçkar. I will definitely be back!

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5
Wild is the Trail and Kaçkar delivers exactly that. 🏔️🔥🏃‍♂️

Kaçkar by UTMB was one of the wildest, most beautiful and most demanding races I have ever experienced.

The course was spectacular — steep climbs, technical descents, high mountain passes, green valleys and constantly changing terrain. It demanded full concentration and respect for the mountains.

The organisation, aid stations, course safety, volunteers and local support were excellent. The warmth of the people made the whole experience even more special.

Kaçkar is much more than a race. It is a true mountain adventure — raw, challenging and unforgettable.

I really enjoyed the race. There was a significant elevation gain in the initial section, followed by a descent that started off technical and then became much faster and more runnable. In my opinion, the organization was perfect; I would do it again and would recommend it.

Kackar by UTMB is more than a race, it’s a deep dive into an ecosystem where raw, magnificent nature meets profound cultural heritage. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Kaçkar Mountains in Turkey, this event doesn’t just test your endurance – it celebrates community, diversity and genuine inclusion at every turn.
Stepping into the peaceful, green valleys of Rize, you instantly feel the compelling spirit of the mountains. The courses, from the ambitious 100km to the immersive 50km and 20km, are a masterclass in trail running, following ancient shepherds trails through dense forest, past tranquil lakes and ascending up to exposed high altitude terrain. The route is relentless, beautiful and technical, demanding respect at every turn. This journey forces runners to rely not just on training, but on the true camaraderie found at every aid station and shared moment on the trail.
Ultimately, the mountain had the final say this year; the 100km race was cancelled due to heavy snowfalls and avalanche. It was a powerful reminder that our purpose in nature is always bigger than the distance or the finish line. I ran the epic 50km, conquering 2,800m of elevation gain over challenging mixed terrains and it was a beautiful day to be alive in that wild landscape.
What truly elevates the Kackar experience is the spirit of its community. It’s the human connection that makes a lasting impression. Runners from Turkey, Europe, Asia, and beyond gather here, creating a vibrant and supportive atmosphere at the start line. The true soul of the event, however, belongs to the warm and welcoming local Hemşin and Laz people, with their traditional hospitality transforming every aid station into a buzzing hub of energy and local flavour.

This blend of international athletes and local culture results in an incredible melting pot of perspectives, all united by a shared passion for the trails. The atmosphere proves that in that mountains, the only language you need is courage and the goal is crossing the finish line together.
The most commendable element of Kaçkar by UTMB is its active commitment to inclusivity, particularly in supporting female runners. I was empowered by the encouragement especially at the start line. My absolute highlight was the moment when the men were asked to sit down and applaud the women as we stood. This powerful act symbolises that women are capable, courageous, ready to take on hard things and belong in these races.
If you’re seeking a race that tests your limits, immerses you in a untamed landscape, and connects you with a diverse, globally welcoming community, the Kaçkar Mountains by UTMB is your next trail race. It’s an unforgettable odyssey.