Dark Sky Trail Lauwersmeer

Dark Sky Trail Lauwersmeer guides runners, canicross teams, and walkers through Nationaal Park Lauwersmeer after sunset, within one of Europe's darkest regions. Steenbok Sport manages the event, with a straightforward objective: traverse the park at night using minimal artificial light. The short trail and canicross course measures approximately 10 km, walkers navigate a similar distance, and extended trail options include 12.5 km, 25 km, and a 50 km ultramarathon. The route incorporates both paved and unpaved sections within the Lauwersmeer Dark Sky Park, with the specific path subject to modification based on park regulations and terrain. Participants will record slower times compared to daytime races because of the need for careful navigation in darkness. Headlamps are permitted but are intended for emergency use only, as requested by the organizer. Support services include water stations, first aid, timing, a finisher's beverage, and a post-race recovery zone. A contribution of EUR2.50 from each registration fee is allocated to Dark Sky Park Lauwersmeer, aiding efforts to combat light pollution.