Rennsteig-Herbstlauf 2026

The Rennsteig-Herbstlauf is an autumn running event held in Oberhof, Germany, featuring muddy forest paths and terrain more challenging than typical road races. The main event is a 20-kilometer cross-country run utilizing sections of the Rennsteiglauf marathon course. The event also offers a 33-kilometer trail race and a 10-kilometer option suitable for less experienced runners. The longer trail deviates from the primary ridge path, incorporating significant elevation changes. The 10-kilometer route has previously circled Masserberg. Conditions are a notable factor; one past edition featured temperatures between five and seven degrees Celsius, accompanied by wind, heavy rain, and saturated trails. This led to the race once being characterized as "definitely not for wimps." The event has been held 35 times, attracts several hundred participants, and is promoted as Europe's largest cross-country run. It is also included in the Golden Trail National Series.