Trail de Montaigu

The Trail de Montaigu 2026 marks the 21st edition of this premier trail running event in the Aube department, scheduled for Sunday, April 26, 2026. Organized by TOS Athlétisme, the race is centered in the commune of Bouilly and is known for its challenging elevation and technical single-track paths through the communal forests of Souligny and Bouilly. This year’s edition introduces a pioneering team format, emphasizing collective effort and solidarity over individual performance, alongside its traditional high-level trail and Nordic walking competitions.

Race Logistics and Innovations

The event headquarters is located at the Stade de Bouilly, where bib collection begins at 6:30 AM on race day. A significant highlight for 2026 is the 9 km Team Trail, where groups of three must run together and finish together, with the final ranking based on the third runner's time. The Nordic Walking event has also seen major upgrades, featuring a dedicated 13 km route and performance bonuses—a rarity in French Nordic walking competitions. The organizers enforce a zero-waste policy, requiring participants to bring their own reusable cups or flasks for aid stations. To support the community atmosphere, on-site catering and a refreshment bar are available for both athletes and spectators throughout the day.

Regional and Community Context

Bouilly is a scenic commune situated in the Aube department, south of Troyes, at the edge of the Othe Forest. The area is geologically defined by the "Montaigu" hill, a natural promontory that provides the significant elevation changes sought by trail runners. The forests of Souligny and Bouilly offer a dense network of winding paths and steep ridges, including the historic oppidum, which served as a defensive site in ancient times. This rugged terrain makes the region a premier destination for mountain sports within the otherwise flatter plains of the Grand Est.

The TOS Athlétisme club, based in Troyes, has successfully turned this race into a regional institution that blends high-level competition with grassroots participation. The local culture is deeply tied to the preservation of these forest trails, and the race serves as a vital platform for environmental awareness and regional pride. By introducing the team format and opening competitive categories to younger athletes in Nordic walking, the Trail de Montaigu continues to evolve as a modern, inclusive sporting festival that honors the natural heritage of the Aube while pushing the boundaries of traditional trail racing.