Here Are The 5 Most Popular Trail Running Races in Hong Kong
To outsiders, Hong Kong may seem like an urban jungle. But to those living here, Hong Kong is a true trail-running mecca. With its stunning landscapes and diverse topography, the city is turning into Asia's hotspot for trail runners. In its expansive country parks, Hong Kong offers endless kilometers of perfectly runnable trails, steep mountain climbs, and breathtaking views of the city, hills, and sea. It’s no wonder that Hong Kong has earned a reputation as one of the best places in the world for trail running.
In this blog post, we’ll dive into the five most popular trail running races in Hong Kong—events that draw both local and international runners seeking a unique blend of challenge, adventure, and natural beauty. From the legendary Hong Kong 100 Ultra Marathon to the grueling HK4TUC, these races showcase the very best of Hong Kong’s trail running scene. Whether you’re a seasoned ultrarunner or a trail-running newbie, these races offer something for everyone.
Lace up your shoes and get ready to explore the most iconic trail running events in Hong Kong!
HK4TUC
HK4TUC: Key Facts
| Distance | 298 kilometers |
|---|---|
| Elevation Gain | +14,500 meters |
| Event Date | Chinese New Year |
| Participants | Runners must apply to participate. |
| Cut Off | 80 hours |
| Fastest Time | 46 hours and 55 minutes by Wong Ho-Chung (2022) |
| Route | All four of Hong Kong's big trails in reverse |
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HK4TUC: The Ultimate Journey Through Hong Kong
The Hong Kong 4 Trails Ultra Challenge (HK4TUC) is less of a traditional race and more of a personal challenge that pushes participants to their absolute limits.
Conceived by Andre Blumberg, this grueling event requires runners to complete all four of Hong Kong’s long-distance trails—the MacLehose Trail, Wilson Trail, Hong Kong Trail, and Lantau Trail*—in reverse order. Covering a staggering 298 kilometers (185 miles) with 14,500 meters (48,000 feet) of elevation gain, the HK4TUC is one of the most demanding ultra-distance challenges in the world.
What makes this event unique is its self-supported and invitation-only format. Participants must navigate the trails independently, carrying their own supplies and relying on their own resilience. The challenge concludes at a humble green postbox in Mui Wo, symbolizing the understated yet monumental achievement of completing the course.
There are two cut-offs to reach the postbox: those who finish in under 60 hours are recognized as “finishers”, while those who complete the challenge in under 72 hours are celebrated as “survivors”.
For a captivating glimpse into the world of the Hong Kong 4 Trails Ultra Challenge (HK4TUC), check out this 2-minute YouTube video. This short but powerful video - a trailer to the longer documentary - beautifully captures the essence of the challenge, showcasing the breathtaking landscapes of Hong Kong’s four major trails and the incredible determination of the participants.
Despite its low-key nature, the HK4TUC has gained significant attention within the global trail running community, attracting elite athletes and ultra-distance enthusiasts who seek to test their limits in one of the most unique and demanding challenges out there.
To learn more about this extraordinary event, visit the official HK4TUC Facebook page
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Hong Kong 100 Ultra Marathon
Key Facts: Hong Kong 100
| Distances |
33 kilometers (The Third) 56 kilometers (The Half) 103 kilometers (HK 100) 198 kilometers (Grand Sam) |
|---|---|
| Elevation Gain | +5,300 meters for the HK 100 |
| Event Date | January |
| ITRA Points | 5 |
| Participants | Around 2,000 |
| Fastest Time | 9h 43min 10 secs - Meng Guangfu (2025) |
| Cut Off | 30 hours |
| Route | Sai Kung to Tai Mo Shan |
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Hong Kong 100: Why It's Worth It
Every year, trail runners from around the world gather in Hong Kong to take on the Hong Kong 100 Ultra Marathon, one of the most prestigious ultra-distance races in Asia.
Known for its challenging course, the race covers 103 kilometers with 5,314 meters of elevation gain, traversing some of Hong Kong’s most iconic trails, including the famous MacLehose Trail.
The route features a mix of terrains, from steep ascents to technical descents, making it a true test of endurance. This unique combination of challenge and scenic beauty attracts elite athletes and passionate amateurs alike.
For those new to ultra-distance running, the Hong Kong 100 offers shorter options to suit different skill levels. Runners can sign up for "The Half" (56 kilometers with 2,206 meters of elevation) or "The Third" (33 kilometers with 1,418 meters of elevation), providing more accessible races. What is special about the HK 100 is that each one of these races takes place on a separate day. The race weekend kicks off with The Third on Thursday, continues on Friday with The Half, and finishes on Saturday with the HK100. This led to the invention of the Grand Sam, the ultimate challenge.
The Grand Sam requires completing The Third, The Half, and the full Hong Kong 100 back-to-back over three consecutive days.
To sign up for the Hong Kong 100 or its shorter distances, visit the official HK 100 website.
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Oxfam Trailwalker
Key Facts: Oxfam Trailwalker
| Distance | 100 kilometers |
|---|---|
| Elevation Gain | +5,000 meters |
| Event Date | November |
| Teams | This a team challenge. Each team consists of 4 runners / hikers. |
| Participants | The race attracts elite runners and hobbyist hikers |
| Fastest Time | The fastest runners typically go sub 10 hours |
| Cut Off | 48 hours |
| Route | MacLehose Trail (mostly) |
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Oxfam Trailwalker - A Team Challenge for a Cause
The Oxfam Trailwalker is more than just a trail running event—it’s a unique blend of physical challenge, teamwork, and charitable impact.
Known as one of Hong Kong’s most iconic endurance events, it brings together teams of four to tackle the 100-kilometer MacLehose Trail, one of Hong Kong's most well-known and most scenic long-distance hiking trails.
What sets this event apart is its emphasis on camaraderie and collective effort. Teams must start, navigate, and finish together, fostering a strong sense of unity and mutual support.
The Oxfam Trailwalker is not a traditional race but a test of endurance and teamwork. Teams of four have 48 hours to complete the course, which includes challenging climbs, rugged terrain, and stunning views of Hong Kong’s countryside. The event is as much about mental resilience as it is about physical stamina, making it a deeply rewarding experience for all involved.
Beyond the physical challenge, the Oxfam Trailwalker has a powerful charitable mission. Since its inception in 1981, the event has raised millions of dollars to support Oxfam’s initiatives to fight poverty and injustice worldwide.
Participants are encouraged to fundraise, adding a meaningful purpose to their journey. This combination of personal achievement and social impact has made the Oxfam Trailwalker a beloved tradition in Hong Kong, attracting thousands of participants and supporters each year.
To sign up for this inspiring event, visit oxfamtrailwalker.org.hk/
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TransLantau by UTMB
Key Facts: TransLantau by UTMB
| Distances |
25 kilometers 53 kilometers 80 kilometers 120 kilometers |
|---|---|
| Elevation Gain | +5,500 meters for the 120km race |
| Event Date | November |
| Running Stones | 4 |
| Participants | Around 400 |
| Fastest Time | 17h 16 min for the 2024 race, by Terunobu Kurokawa |
| Cut Off | 36 hours |
| Route | Lantau Island |
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TransLantau: Explore Hong Kong's Outdoor Playground
As part of the prestigious UTMB World Series, TransLantau is a trail running event that takes participants through the stunning and diverse landscapes of Lantau Island, Hong Kong’s outdoor playground. The race attracts runners from all around the globe, making it one of Hong Kong's most internationally prestigious.
Known for its challenging climbs, dense forests, and panoramic views of the South China Sea, this race offers a unique blend of technical trails and breathtaking scenery that captivates both local and international runners.
What sets TransLantau apart is its dedication to showcasing the natural beauty of Lantau Island.
The course winds through iconic landmarks such as Lantau Peak, Hong Kong's highest accessible mountain top, Sunset Peak, and the picturesque Tai O Fishing Village, providing runners with an immersive experience of Hong Kong’s rugged terrain and cultural heritage.
Whether you’re tackling the 120-kilometer ultra, the 80-kilometer option, or one of the shorter distances, TransLantau offers a challenging yet rewarding adventure for all levels of trail runners.
To sign up for this race, visit the official UTMB World Series page for the TransLantau 100: TransLantau100 (utmb.world).
CBRE Lantau 2 Peaks
Key Facts: CBRE Lantau 2 Peaks
| Distance | 23 kilometers |
|---|---|
| Elevation Gain | +1,900 meters |
| Event Date | October |
| Running Stones | Not Applicable |
| Participants | Around 400 |
| Fastest Time | The fastest runners typically go sub 3 hours |
| Cut Off | 8 hours |
| Route | Lantau Island: Tung Chung |
CBRE Lantau 2 Peaks - Why It's Worth It
For those seeking a shorter but more intense trail running experience, the Lantau 2 Peaks race is a perfect choice.
Organized by Action Asia, a well-known local Hong Kong-based race organizer, this event takes participants on a challenging journey across two of Lantau Island’s most iconic peaks: Lantau Peak (934 meters) and Sunset Peak (869 meters).
With a distance of just 23 kilometers and 1,800 meters of elevation gain, this race packs a punch, offering a demanding yet accessible route that appeals to seasoned trail runners and newcomers looking to test their limits.
What makes Lantau 2 Peaks particularly unique is its timing—the race traditionally takes place in early October, when Hong Kong’s weather can still be hot and humid. This adds an extra layer of challenge, as runners must contend with steep climbs, technical descents, and the elements. The reward? Stunning panoramic views of Lantau Island, including the South China Sea, lush valleys, and the iconic Big Buddha at Ngong Ping.
Action Asia Events is renowned for its well-organized races and commitment to promoting outdoor sports in Hong Kong. The Lantau 2 Peaks race is no exception, offering a professionally managed event with clear course markings, aid stations, and a supportive atmosphere.
To sign up for this race, visit the Action Asia Events website.
Hong Kong Trail Running Races
These five races are just the beginning—Hong Kong is home to a vibrant trail running scene with events for every level of experience.
From the iconic Hong Kong 100 Ultra Marathon to the team-focused Oxfam Trailwalker, there’s no shortage of challenges to take on. Local race organizers like Action Asia Events, The King of the Hills, and GreenRace have played a pivotal role in shaping the community, offering well-organized races that showcase the city’s stunning landscapes and diverse trails.
For those new to Hong Kong or planning to fly in for a race, the trail running season typically runs during the cooler winter months, from October to March, when the weather is more favorable for long-distance running. This is the perfect time to explore the city’s trails, from the rugged peaks of Lantau Island to the lush greenery of the New Territories.
Whether you’re a seasoned ultrarunner seeking a grueling challenge or a beginner looking to dip your toes into trail running, Hong Kong’s races offer something for everyone. So, lace up your trail shoes, embrace the hills, and discover the thrill of running in one of the world’s most dynamic and picturesque cities!
