Poço Negro Trail

The Poço Negro Trail is a trail running race held in July in Rio Mau, a parish within Penafiel, Northern Portugal. Now in its ninth year, it offers participants three options: a long trail of approximately 31-32 km, a short trail of about 15-18 km, and a mini-trail or walk covering roughly 8-10 km. The long route involves a climb of around 1500 m, with the shorter routes providing sufficient elevation for genuine mountain and valley running. The courses traverse trails within Serra da Boneca, the Estivada region, and the Rio Mau valley. The race is named for its section near Poço Negro, a waterfall and lagoon situated along the route. This event is deeply rooted in the local community, extending beyond mere timed competition. Registration fees contribute to the Association for the Development of the Parish of Rio Mau. Participants receive standard race amenities, including aid stations, timing, on-course support, showers, insurance, photographs, a participant kit, and medals or trophies.