The Trail des Gorges de l'Auvézère begins in Saint-Mesmin, a small village in Dordogne, within the Périgord region of Nouvelle-Aquitaine. This winter trail-running event takes place in the Gorges de l’Auvézère, featuring routes through forests and natural landscapes instead of paved roads. Participants can select from short, middle, and long trail distances of approximately 11 km, 19 km, and 32 km. An 11 km walk is also available for those who wish to experience the terrain without competing.
The courses present significant elevation changes for their distances: the 11 km route gains around 420 m, the 19 km route about 880 m, and the longest route approximately 1300 m, with some past editions being even more demanding. The event emphasizes its remote, tranquil countryside setting over urban environments, appealing to trail runners who prefer rugged terrain, woodlands, and a straightforward outdoor experience. Its local draw stems from the opportunity to explore a less-developed area of the Dordogne, with Saint-Mesmin serving as the entry point to the gorges.