Cascada Travel Blog - Insider tips about Chile

Participate in Ultra Paine, a trail running competition in Patagonia

Written by Cascada Team | Aug 14, 2024 9:38:25 PM

Explore the untamed beauty of Patagonia through its trail running routes this September 28-29, 2024. Challenge your limits in the heart of Torres del Paine National Park. 

Ultra Paine

This epic race will take you through rugged trails, forests, and panoramic views. The route includes challenging climbs and dizzying descents, perfect for trail running enthusiasts. Past edition winners have shown that skill and endurance are key to conquering this challenge. Explore the map to discover the 2024 edition race routes.

© ultrapaine.com

 

Torres del Paine National Park

Welcome to an adventurer's paradise! Torres del Paine National Park is one of the most spectacular destinations in the world, known for its landscapes and biodiversity.

The granite towers, vast glaciers, and turquoise lakes make this park unique. An exciting setting for any trail running enthusiast. You can enjoy impressive views, from the majestic Torres del Paine to the imposing Grey Glacier, and run alongside guanacos, condors, or foxes.

Ultra Paine routes


Explore the routes designed with different race distances for each type of runner. Ultra Paine offers a variety of tours that will allow you to discover the park. Each trail offers its challenge and reward.

14K: An accessible but equally spectacular route. Ideal for those looking to get started in trail running. Run along well-marked trails and enjoy unparalleled panoramic vistas.

21K: This half marathon takes you through varied landscapes, from green valleys to rockier areas. Perfect for those who want a moderate challenge while enjoying the environment.

35K: This distance challenges you with climbs and descents. Dare to explore the park's most hidden corners.

50K: The jewel in the crown. This ultra marathon is for experienced runners looking to push their endurance to the limit. You will cross varied and demanding terrain that will put you to the test in every kilometer.

80K: The test is reserved only for the best. Only the most prepared runners will take on this ultra marathon. Demanding terrain, top-level competitors, and an incomparable natural setting await you.

© ultrapaine.com

You can also extend your participation in the Ultra Paine by visiting the park. Cascada Expediciones prepared a 5-day trail runners' stay for travelers who want to enjoy both the run and hikes in Torres del Paine, namely Cerro Paine, the towers' base, and an easy excursion to Laguna Azul.

 

Patagonian International Marathon

If you are more of a marathon runner, you can opt for another challenge: the Patagonian International Marathon instead of the Ultra Paine. The marathon takes place on September 7. You can choose between 42K, 21K, or 10K

You can also combine this event with some excursions in the park the days after the race: 5-day stay for runners.

Run alongside athletes from around the world in one of the most iconic marathons on the planet. Previous winners have left an indelible mark, and new runners take on the challenge of beating their times every year.

You can check the winners of the Patagonian International Marathon and Ultra Paine here: 2023 Winners Ultra Paine, 2023 winners Patagonian International Marathon.

How to get to Torres del Paine from the United States?

 

Flight to Santiago

Take an international flight from your main city in the United States to Santiago de Chile (SCL). Direct flights are available from cities such as New York, Miami, Dallas, and Los Angeles.

 

Flight to Puerto Natales

You can take a domestic flight from Santiago directly to Puerto Natales (PNT). However, during the low season (May to September), there are no daily flights, only certain days of the week. LATAM and SKY operate year-round. From the airport, taxis and vans drive to the center of Puerto Natales, a ride of approximately 10-15 minutes. 

 

Connection to Punta Arenas

From Santiago, take a domestic flight to Punta Arenas (PUQ). Several Chilean airlines, like LATAM and SKY, offer daily direct and frequent flights. 

 

Ground transportation to Puerto Natales

Once in Punta Arenas, you can take a bus or rent a car to Puerto Natales. A private transfer is usually included if you book a program with a tour operator or hotel. The trip takes around 3 hours.

 

From Puerto Natales to Torres del Paine

You can take a bus from Puerto Natales to Torres del Paine National Park or use the private transfer included in your program. The journey to the park takes approximately 2 hours and will bring you straight to the heart of the action.