Jeju International Trail Running Race

The Patagonia Jeju International Trail Running Race is a premier endurance event held on South Korea’s scenic Jeju Island, designed to highlight the region's unique volcanic landscapes and promote environmental conservation. Centered around Mount Hallasan, the highest peak in South Korea, the race provides a challenging and "tough" terrain that tests the limits of approximately 300 runners from over 20 countries annually. Participants experience a "once-in-a-lifetime" atmosphere, often running in crews to socialize while taking in the island's natural beauty, which transitions through coastal highways, alpine forests, and lush grasslands.

Scheduled for April 10–12, 2026, the race offers participants a chance to experience Jeju’s iconic spring scenery, including vibrant yellow canola fields and cherry blossoms. The course features a variety of unique terrains, such as Oreums (parasitic volcanic cones) and the historic Gammajang path—a traditional horse trail providing panoramic views of the island's interior. A key highlight is the Gasiri village area, widely considered to have some of the most beautiful trail running terrain in Korea, where runners can view volcanic landforms like lava tubes and basalt columns from the trail network.

The event serves a dual purpose as both a competition and an environmental campaign. Title sponsor Patagonia uses the race to raise awareness for the protection of Jeju’s ecosystem against reckless development, integrating "Run to Save Jeju" challenges that donate funds to local environmental organizations for every finisher. For many, this is a "sporting journey" that tells the geological and cultural story of the UNESCO-listed island, culminating in a celebration of Jeju's culinary culture with local delicacies like abalone porridge and traditional kimchi at the finish line.