Trail du Vieux Semur is a night trail race held in the medieval town of Semur-en-Auxois, located in Côte-d'Or, Burgundy-Franche-Comté. Typically taking place in January, the environment is cold and dark, offering a distinct contrast to summer trail events. The race offers multiple options, including short youth races, an 8 km Trail des Remparts, a standard trail of approximately 17-18 km, and an XL route extending to about 25-27 km. A canicross event allows participants to run with their dogs, and a walking option is available for those who prefer to experience the route without competing.
The course incorporates the old town, guiding runners through stone-walled streets, past lit sections, and towards the ramparts before venturing into the natural areas surrounding Semur-en-Auxois. The climbs are significant but not overly challenging, with the longest distance reaching just over 600 m in elevation gain. The event draws a variety of trail runners, not exclusively specialists. The combination of night running, historic streets, fortifications, the option to race with dogs, and its winter timing contributes to a unique local character.