Marathon races near Ettlingen

The Wald-Marathon Wilgartswiesen begins and ends at the Falkenburghalle in Wilgartswiesen, a village in Rhineland-Palatinate near the Hauenstein holiday region. This forest race and walking event takes place in early October, offering running distances from 7 km up to the marathon, plus a 45.1 km hiking marathon with 1,402 meters of elevation gain. Verbandsgemeinde Hauenstein and TSV Wilgartswiesen organize the event, with the ninth edition scheduled. The primary hiking route crosses scenic paths within the Hauenstein walking area of the Palatinate Forest. Participants should anticipate a demanding day; the long course crosses six mountains, featuring rock formations, steep valleys, and extensive woodlands. It is suitable for determined hikers and runners alike, providing a direct exploration of the Hauenstein region without becoming a road race. Wilgartswiesen station is approximately 2 km from the venue, Hauenstein Mitte is about 3 km away, and drivers can access the start area via the B10 from Pirmasens or Landau.

The Ring Running Series hosts a half marathon and marathon on an original Formula 1 track in November. The race is designed around the circuit, not city streets. The route is officially measured and AIMS certified, fully asphalted, secured, and maintained for runners aiming for a personal best. Entry includes a personal bib with a timing chip, electronic timing, a finisher medal, and a downloadable certificate. The race incorporates the motor-racing setting: changing areas are in the pit lane, jackets can be left near the start and retrieved near the finish, and luggage storage is located close to the finish area. Runners receive refreshments on the course and post-race, with entertainment at the start, finish, and along the route. Medical support, showers, and free parking near the start and finish provide a self-contained race day at the circuit.

The Wald(Ultra)Marathon Calw is a 46 km forest ultramarathon beginning in Calw-Altburg, Baden-Württemberg. Scheduled for December, it directs runners onto hilly terrain rather than a fast road course. The longest route extends slightly beyond marathon distance, but the elevation gain and forest trails give it the feel of a mountain endurance run rather than just a few extra kilometers. The course crosses the wooded hills surrounding Calw-Altburg, with Baden and Swabian scenery as the setting. Organizers classify the difficulty as 4 out of 5. The 46 km route demands significant endurance and proficiency on steep or mountain-like terrain. This race is considered a regional ultra classic, emphasizing a challenging day on the trails over achieving a personal best.

The Marathon de la Forêt Sacrée is a 42.195 km marathon in Surbourg, Alsace, starting at 10:30 near the village hall on a Sunday in April. The Surbourg running club, 2C4S, affiliated with the French athletics federation, organizes the event. The route follows the Haguenau forest's bike paths and trails, a large forest area in Alsace. Runners will find a nearly flat course with long shaded straightaways, alternating between asphalt and forest paths. This course suits runners aiming for a personal best and those who prefer a marathon mostly within the woods.