Trail des Combrailles

Trail des Combrailles begins in Les Ancizes-Comps, located in the Puy-de-Dôme department of France's Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region. This trail running event takes place in late October within the Combrailles area, near the Sioule gorges and Fades-Besserve lake. Participants can select from four primary distances: approximately 36 km with 1,700 m of elevation gain, 24 km with around 1,000 m, 16 km with 650 m, or 9 km with about 300 m. The event also offers three children's courses, and the shortest route includes a canitrail option for those running with dogs. The longer courses follow natural local trails through gorges, alongside water, and in forest areas, crossing old railway lines instead of a basic road circuit. Both the 36 km Les 2 Barrages and the 24 km La Passerelle routes pass over the Viaduc des Fades, which is the second-tallest railway viaduct in Europe. The race is recognized for the UTMB Index, attracting trail runners seeking a recognized mountain-style challenge. However, the shorter races, children's events, and the dog-friendly option ensure the weekend appeals to a wider audience beyond just elite ultra-runners.