1. 🏜️ Grand Canyon Rim-to-Rim-to-Rim (R2R2R) — Arizona
Distance: ~42–47 miles (67–75 km) round trip Elevation Gain: ~10,500 ft (3,200+ m) Best Season: Spring (April–May) or Fall (October–November)
The Rim-to-Rim-to-Rim (R2R2R) route is more than a test of endurance—it’s a journey across time and geology. You’ll begin at the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, descend steeply into a world of red rock cathedrals, cross the powerful Colorado River, and climb up to the remote North Rim. Then, as you look back across the vast expanse of layered cliffs and hidden valleys, you’ll know you’re only halfway done.
Why it’s epic:
It’s a double crossing of one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World
The terrain constantly shifts: desert plateaus, slot canyons, river crossings, alpine forests
No support stations, no medals—just the canyon and your will
Highlights Along the Route:
Bright Angel Trail or South Kaibab Trail: Two dramatic descent options from the South Rim
Phantom Ranch: A legendary oasis near the river with water, restrooms, and snacks (reservations for lodging require months of planning)
North Kaibab Trail: A long and scenic climb with Redwall limestone cliffs, waterfalls, and seasonal water points like Roaring Springs
Ultrarunner Insights:
The terrain is technical in parts, especially near the river and canyon switchbacks
Weather can vary 40°F (20°C) between rim and canyon floor—layer accordingly
Headlamps are essential if starting before sunrise or finishing after dark
Elite runners complete R2R2R in under 8 hours; most take 12–16 hours
Permits? You don’t need a backcountry permit if you’re running it in one push without camping. But always check current conditions via the Grand Canyon Backcountry Office.
🧠 This is a route that humbles even the strongest. It teaches pacing, hydration discipline, and deep mental focus. But the payoff—those final switchbacks at sunrise or sunset—are pure magic.
2. 🏔️ John Muir Trail (JMT) — California High Sierra
Distance: ~211 miles (340 km) Elevation Gain: ~47,000 ft (14,000+ m) Typical Duration (Fastpacking): 7–10 days Best Season: July to early September
The John Muir Trail (JMT) is the crown jewel of American long-distance trail running. Traversing the spine of the High Sierra, this point-to-point route begins in Yosemite Valley and ends atop Mount Whitney—the highest peak in the contiguous U.S. While most complete it in 2–3 weeks with backpacks, ultrarunners and fastpackers have pushed it in under 5 days. What sets it apart? Nearly every mile is postcard-worthy.
Why it’s epic:
Iconic, high-altitude scenery almost nonstop
Crosses 6 mountain passes over 11,000 ft (~3350 m)
Remote wilderness immersion with glacier-fed lakes, granite spires, and meadows
Highlights Along the Route:
Yosemite’s Cathedral Range: Granite domes and alpine lakes early in the trail
Muir Pass: Surreal stone hut at the summit, often snow-covered even in summer
Evolution Basin: Widely considered one of the most scenic spots in the Sierra
Mount Whitney Summit: A legendary finish at 14,505 ft (4,421 m)
Ultrarunner Insights:
Navigation is straightforward with GPX files, but weather and altitude are constant variables
Most runners use resupply drops at Muir Trail Ranch or Vermilion Valley Resort
Ultralight gear is essential: fastpackers often go sub-20 lbs including food
Acclimatization days before starting help avoid altitude sickness
Permits? Yes—a wilderness permit is mandatory, and demand is extremely high. Applications open 6 months in advance via Recreation.gov. Consider starting at a less crowded trailhead to increase your chances.
🧠 The JMT isn’t about speed—it’s about rhythm. Long days, early starts, stream crossings, endless climbs. You’ll finish stronger, calmer, and probably a bit dustier than you expected. And you’ll never forget the silence between those peaks.
3. 🏞️ Wonderland Trail — Mount Rainier National Park, Washington
Distance: ~93 miles (150 km) loop Elevation Gain: ~25,000 ft (7,600+ m) Typical Duration (Fastpacking): 2–4 days Best Season: August to early September
Circling the base of one of America’s most iconic volcanoes, the Wonderland Trail delivers Pacific Northwest beauty in all its forms—alpine meadows, rushing rivers, glaciers, and dense old-growth forests. It’s a loop, which means you can start anywhere and end where you began. While backpackers often take 7–10 days, many ultrarunners have tackled the full circuit in a single, epic push.
Why it’s epic:
A full circumnavigation of Mount Rainier—massive, moody, and snow-capped
Countless elevation changes make it a rollercoaster for the legs and lungs
Vivid wildflower blooms in summer and endless photo-worthy vistas
Highlights Along the Route:
Indian Bar: Wildflower paradise with waterfalls and panoramic views
Spray Park & Mystic Lake: Quiet, alpine sections perfect for sunrise runs
Glacier-fed river crossings: Some require wading or log balancing
Sunrise & Reflection Lakes: Classic views of Rainier reflected in still water
Ultrarunner Insights:
The terrain is constantly up or down—flat miles are rare
Trailheads like Longmire or Sunrise offer logical start/finish points
Fastest Known Time (FKT) is under 20 hours, but most runners take 2–3 days
Water is abundant, but some rivers are glacial and silty—bring a filter
Permits? Yes—a wilderness permit is required for all overnight trips, and campsites must be reserved in advance. Visit NPS.gov to apply. Solo permits are limited.
🧠 The Wonderland Trail feels alive: fog rolls in fast, elk bugle in the distance, and glaciers creak as you descend into shadowed valleys. It’s the kind of run where solitude sharpens your senses and every mile is a memory.
4. 🌲 Appalachian Trail: 100-Mile Wilderness — Maine
Distance: ~100.4 miles (162 km) Elevation Gain: ~15,000 ft (4,570+ m) Typical Duration (Fastpacking): 3–5 days Best Season: Late June to early October
Welcome to the most remote and rugged section of the entire Appalachian Trail. The 100-Mile Wilderness, stretching from Monson to the base of Mount Katahdin, is a rite of passage for thru-hikers—and an endurance playground for fastpackers and ultrarunners seeking solitude. This stretch delivers moss-covered forests, steep scrambles, countless stream crossings, and near-total disconnection from civilization.
Why it’s epic:
No resupply points, no cell service, no shortcuts
Wild, untamed terrain with minimal trail maintenance in places
Frequent moose sightings, loons echoing across lakes, and genuine backcountry isolation
Highlights Along the Route:
Chairback Range: Tough climbs with views of distant lakes and peaks
Gulf Hagas: Known as the “Grand Canyon of the East”—a scenic detour
Whitecap Mountain: Last big summit before the final descent
Rainbow Ledges: A fitting finale with sweeping views of Katahdin
Ultrarunner Insights:
Expect wet feet: multiple river crossings and marshy zones
Navigation is generally marked but overgrowth and fog can be disorienting—bring GPS backup
Most runners cache supplies at Jo-Mary Road via private shuttle or coordinate with local trail angels (plan weeks in advance)
Pacing is slower here—roots, rocks, and steep grades dominate
Permits? No permits required for the 100-Mile Wilderness itself. However, if you plan to summit Mount Katahdin at the end, you’ll need to register at Baxter State Park and follow strict rules.
🧠 If you’re looking for solitude, this is it. No crowds, no shops, no distractions—just you, the forest, and 100 miles of perspective-shifting trail. You’ll run slower, think deeper, and come out changed.
5. 🏜️ Zion Traverse — Zion National Park, Utah
Distance: ~48 miles (77 km) Elevation Gain: ~8,000 ft (2,440+ m) Typical Duration (Fastpacking): 1–2 days Best Season: Spring (April–May) or Fall (late September–October)
The Zion Traverse is a point-to-point route that spans the entire width of Zion National Park, linking together iconic trails through a maze of red rock canyons, slickrock ridges, and pine-topped plateaus. It’s one of the most scenic and runnable long routes in the desert Southwest—and a favorite among ultrarunners looking for a wild yet accessible challenge.
Why it’s epic:
Connects Zion’s most famous landscapes in one seamless traverse
Contrasts of terrain: desert floor to alpine heights, slot canyons to sweeping mesas
Sunrise and sunset in Zion’s canyons are unmatched
Highlights Along the Route:
Hop Valley: Sandy, surreal section through high desert fields and canyon walls
West Rim Trail: One of the most scenic trails in the entire U.S.—remote, ridgeline views
Lava Point: High elevation plateau near the starting point
Angel’s Landing (Optional): A side trail that adds iconic vertical exposure and thrill
Ultrarunner Insights:
Water is scarce and seasonal—know every reliable spring ahead of time
Temps can shift 30°F+ (15°C+) between early morning and mid-day
This route favors high-cadence running—smooth slickrock and rolling trails
Caching water or using a support crew at designated trailheads (e.g., Wildcat, Hop Valley, Grotto) can be critical
Permits? Yes—a wilderness permit is required for overnight trips. Day runs technically don’t require permits, but you must arrange shuttle logistics ahead of time if you’re not looping back. Check details via NPS Zion Wilderness Permits.
🧠 If the Grand Canyon is depth and the JMT is altitude, then Zion is contrast. In a single day, you’ll run across ancient lava flows, descend sandstone steps, and sprint under towering crimson cliffs. It’s cinematic from start to finish.
🎯 Beyond Bibs: Why These Routes Matter More Than Medals
Official races have their place—cheering crowds, aid stations, shiny medals. But these trail adventures? They offer something deeper. Solitude. Self-reliance. The kind of satisfaction that doesn’t come from crossing a finish line, but from earning every step in silence.
Each of these routes—whether it’s the brutal heat of the Grand Canyon or the cool solitude of Maine’s wilderness—demands the same training, mindset, and grit as a formal ultramarathon. Sometimes more.
But here’s what you gain when you ditch the race bib:
No cutoff times. You set the pace.
No crowds. Just you and the wild.
No entry fees. The price is your effort.
You’ll need to train just as smart, hydrate just as carefully, and plan every step. But when you run these trails—alone or with a few trusted partners—you’ll return home not just with miles in your legs, but with stories in your bones.
🧭 Ready to Take the Leap?
Whether you’re fastpacking the JMT or chasing sunrise through Zion, these epic routes are calling. Start with Fastpacking 101, check out new Races in 2025 if you want structure, and don’t forget to review Safety & Survival essentials before you head out.
🌄 The wild is waiting. You don’t need a race to run it.
❓ Epic Trail Running FAQ
📍 Do I need permits to run these routes?
Yes, especially for overnight use. The John Muir Trail, Wonderland Trail, and parts of Zion all require permits. Day runs may be exempt.
🥾 How do I train for these epic trail runs?
Train like you would for a stage race: back-to-back long runs, elevation work, pack testing, and terrain-specific workouts.
💧 Is water available along these trails?
It depends. R2R2R and JMT have seasonal water sources. Zion is limited—carry or cache water. Always carry a filter.
🧭 Should I run solo or with a partner?
While solo is possible, routes like the 100-Mile Wilderness or JMT are safer with a partner due to remoteness and wildlife.
🎒 What gear should I carry?
A lightweight hydration vest or running pack with water, snacks, GPS, map, headlamp, emergency blanket, and a small first aid kit.
📅 What’s the best time of year for each route?
Spring/Fall for R2R2R and Zion, Summer for JMT, Wonderland Trail, and 100-Mile Wilderness.
📱 Can I use my phone for navigation?
Yes, but always carry a backup like a paper map or GPS watch. Battery life is limited and some areas have zero signal.
🚫 Are these official races?
No. These are self-planned “FKT-style” or fastpacking routes. No aid stations, no medals—just the trail and you.
⛺ Can I camp on these trails?
Yes, but rules vary. Wonderland and JMT require designated site permits. AT Wilderness allows dispersed camping with LNT principles.
🚑 What’s the biggest risk?
Dehydration, weather exposure, navigation errors, wildlife, and overexertion. Safety planning is essential.
🧦 What’s the best footwear for these routes?
Lightweight trail running shoes with solid grip and good drainage. Consider gaiters for sand or debris.
🌅 Can I do any of these routes in a single day?
Yes—R2R2R and Zion Traverse are often done in one push by fit ultrarunners. The others typically require 2–7 days.
⚡ Do I need to be an elite athlete?
No. But you should be experienced with long-distance trail running and have solid endurance, planning, and self-sufficiency skills.
📉 What if I can’t finish?
You must self-rescue or have bailout plans. These are not races with sweepers. Plan exit points, especially for JMT and AT sections.
🌡️ What are the temperature extremes?
In a single run, you might experience 100°F heat (R2R2R) or freezing nights (JMT). Layering is critical.
🛰️ Do I need a GPS tracker or satellite beacon?
Strongly recommended for JMT, 100-Mile Wilderness, and Zion. Spot Gen4 or Garmin inReach can be life-saving tools.
🍽️ How do I manage nutrition?
Eat early, often, and salty. Energy bars, nut butters, dates, and real food are popular. Plan resupplies or carry 3000–6000 kcal/day.
🚿 What about hygiene on multi-day runs?
Wet wipes, baby powder, foot balm, and Leave No Trace practices. Keep feet dry and clean daily to avoid blisters and infections.
🥵 How do I deal with extreme heat or sun?
Start early, cover up with light clothing, use sunscreen, and pace conservatively. Use salt tabs and hydrate aggressively.
🧠 What’s the mental challenge like?
It’s real. Solitude, fatigue, and discomfort can break your rhythm. Mental mantras, podcasts, and reminders of your “why” help tremendously.
🧠 Quiz: Are You Ready for an Epic Trail Adventure?
Which of these routes completes a full loop around a mountain?
A) John Muir Trail
B) Wonderland Trail
C) Appalachian Trail
What’s the main reason ultrarunners avoid summer for R2R2R?
A) Trail closures
B) High river crossings
C) Extreme heat
Which trail ends at the summit of Mount Whitney?
A) Rim-to-Rim
B) John Muir Trail
C) Zion Traverse
Which route offers the least chance of seeing other people?
A) 100-Mile Wilderness
B) Wonderland Trail
C) Grand Canyon R2R2R
Which terrain feature dominates the Zion Traverse?
A) Forested ridgelines
B) Slickrock and canyons
C) Muddy hills and bogs
What’s a common challenge on the Wonderland Trail?
A) Heatstroke
B) Foot rot
C) Constant elevation gain and descent
What should you bring if attempting JMT unsupported?
A) Lightweight crampons
B) Water filter and food cache plan
C) Climbing rope and helmet
What does R2R2R stand for?
A) Road-to-River-to-Ridge
B) Rim-to-River-to-Rim
C) Rim-to-Rim-to-Rim
What is essential to avoid dehydration on desert trails?
A) More calories
B) Just plain water
C) Electrolytes
Why do some runners use satellite beacons on these routes?
A) To listen to music
B) To track daily pace
C) For emergency communication
Planning your own DIY ultra trail adventure? These GPS and mapping resources will help you understand the elevation, terrain, and logistics before you even lace up your shoes. Each link offers interactive maps, GPX file downloads, and real-world trail stats submitted by experienced runners and hikers.
🏔️ Wonderland Trail (Mt. Rainier, WA)
This full 93-mile loop around Mount Rainier is documented in detail on Wikiloc, including elevation gain and terrain challenges. Ideal for multi-day fastpacking or single-push FKTs.
This point-to-point 48-mile route spans the full width of Zion and is mapped in detail on AllTrails, including elevation gain, water access, and difficulty ratings.
🎥 Trail Running Inspiration: Watch These Epic Films
Before you set off on your own trail adventure, take a moment to immerse yourself in the world of elite fastpackers and ultrarunners. These three videos capture the essence of the trails featured in this article—showing both the beauty and brutality of running far, free, and unsupported.
🏔️ Wonderland Trail FKT Documentary – Mark Hammond
This documentary follows ultrarunner Mark Hammond as he attempts a Fastest Known Time (FKT) on the 93-mile Wonderland Trail encircling Mount Rainier. It’s an intense look at pacing, nutrition, and the raw power of Pacific Northwest terrain—perfect for anyone considering a multi-day route like this.
🏜️ Hardest, Most Scenic Route Through Zion – One Day Epic
This short film showcases an end-to-end run across Zion National Park—highlighting the brutal climbs, stunning slickrock, and mind-bending scale of the Zion Traverse. It’s an inspiring reminder of what’s possible in just one day with strong legs and a sunrise start.
⛰️ The Long Haul – John Muir Trail with Hal Koerner & Mike Wolfe
Follow two legendary ultrarunners as they attempt to crush the 211-mile John Muir Trail through California’s High Sierra. This film blends endurance, scenery, and spirit, giving viewers a front-row seat to one of the toughest and most beautiful fastpacking challenges in the U.S.
About the Author Lost Pace is an ultramarathon runner, shoe-tester and the founder of umit.net. Based year-round in Türkiye’s rugged Kaçkar Mountains, he has logged 10,000 + km of technical trail running and completed multiple 50 K–100 K ultras.
Blending mountain grit with data, Lost analyses power (CP 300 W), HRV and nutrition to craft evidence-backed training plans. He has co-written 260 + long-form guides on footwear science, recovery and endurance nutrition, and is a regular beta-tester of AI-driven coaching tools.
When he isn’t chasing PRs or testing midsoles, you’ll find him sharing peer-reviewed research in plain English to help runners train smarter, stay healthier and finish stronger.
Ultrarunner · Data geek · Vegan athlete
