MessengerUltra Trail Serra da Freita
Event summary
Celebrating its 20th edition, the Ultra Trail Serra da Freita (UTSF) is the oldest trail running event in Portugal, taking place on June 27–28, 2026, in Arouca, traversing the stunning and rugged Serra da Freita. This iconic race is known for its raw emotion, steep ascents, technical trails, and breathtaking landscapes through the municipalities of Arouca, Vale de Cambra, and São Pedro do Sul.
With five trail distances and a non-competitive walk, the UTSF is designed for seasoned trail runners and adventurous spirits alike. It’s part of the ATRP National Circuit, and its races are expected to award ITRA and UTMB points (to be confirmed). This event blends a competitive atmosphere with community spirit, offering an unforgettable experience whether you’re racing the 100K or hiking the 12K.
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Plan itInformation
Dates:
• June 27–28, 2026
• Expo and bib pick-up: June 26 (18:00–23:00) and June 27 (from 5:00)
Distances & Start Times (June 27):
• 🏃♂️ Elite Trail 100K – 6:00 (D+ 6685m)
• 🏃 Ultra Trail 65K – 6:00 (D+ 4096m)
• 🏃 Trail 31K – 8:00 (D+ 1877m)
• 🏃 Mini-Trail 19K – 9:00 (D+ 1063m)
• 🚶 Walk 12K – 9:15 (non-competitive)
Location:
• Start: Praça Brandão de Vasconcelos, Arouca
• Finish: Escola Secundária de Arouca
Cut-off Times:
• 100K & 65K: 29h
• 31K: 9h
• 19K: 6h
Age Requirements:
• 100K / 65K / 31K – 18+
• 19K – 15+
• Walk – 10+ (with adult)
Surface & Format:
• Mountain trails, forest paths, rivers, paved roads
• Looped segments with open-road crossings
Timing:
• Chip timing with checkpoints and cut-offs
Mandatory Gear:
• Water supply, thermal blanket, phone, windbreaker, headlamp (for 100K/65K), whistle
• No disposable cups – bring your own
Aid Stations:
• Multiple per race with food and hydration
• Final meal for 100K/65K
Drop Bags:
• Available for 100K at Póvoa das Leiras (~60K mark)
Weather:
• Typically mild to warm in late June, but mountainous terrain may cause sudden changes
Regulation:
UTSF 2026 Official Regulation 📎
Location
get directionsRaces
Trail Run 100 km
Trail Run 65 km
Trail Run 31 km
Trail Run 19 km
Walking 12 km
Benefits
🎽 Athlete kit: technical shirt, bib, GPS tracker (for 100K/65K)
🏅 Finisher prize: medal + other race-specific gifts
⏱️ Chip timing with checkpoints
🛟 Medical assistance & first aid at checkpoints
🛡️ Personal accident insurance
🥤 Food & hydration stations + final meal (for long distances)
🚿 Showers at finish
🧳 Drop bag service (for 100K only)
📸 Event photography and media coverage
🏆 Podium awards for overall and age groups + team prizes
🎪 ExpoTrail – outdoor gear fair during the event
🎁 Free entry for 2027 for top 3 in each distance