Running with respect for the mountains: best practices for more sustainable trail running

The mountains give us everything

Trail running allows us to discover unique places, cross forests, climb volcanoes, follow historic paths and take in landscapes that very few people ever get to see.

But enjoying nature also comes with responsibility.

Every runner is part of the environment they pass through, and their actions help to either preserve or damage it. Running responsibly is a way of protecting the very landscapes that make events such as the Tenerife Bluetrail by UTMB® possible.

It all starts before the run

Sustainability doesn’t begin when the starting gun goes off.

Choosing durable kit, reusing equipment whenever possible and planning your nutrition properly all help reduce unnecessary waste.

Small actions, repeated by thousands of runners, have a hugely significant impact.

Never leave rubbish behind

It may seem obvious, but it remains one of the most important rules.

Gel wrappers, bottles, tissues and any other waste should stay with the runner until they reach a designated disposal point.

There's no room for rushing or excuses on mountains.

Always respect the trails

Paths exist for a reason.

Leaving the route to cut a few metres or overtake off the trail encourages soil erosion and can damage particularly sensitive plant species.

Sticking to the marked route helps preserve natural spaces and makes it easier for everyone to share them responsibly.

Share the mountains

Trails do not belong only to runners.

Walkers, cyclists, families, photographers and conservation staff also enjoy these spaces.

Being respectful, letting others know when you overtake and giving way when needed improves the experience for everyone.

Wildlife deserves peace and quiet too

Many species find refuge in the natural areas through which mountain races pass.

Avoiding unnecessary shouting, never feeding animals and respecting protected areas all help preserve the balance of the ecosystem.

The best photograph of an animal is one that does not alter its behaviour.

Every small action counts

Switching off an unnecessary light, sharing a car to travel to an event, using reusable bottles or recycling sports kit at the end of its life are simple actions that also form part of an environmental commitment.

Sustainability does not depend on a single decision, but on hundreds of small habits.

Run today so we can keep running tomorrow

The mountains give us spectacular settings, unforgettable challenges and memories that last forever.

Taking care of them is the best way to give back for everything they offer us and to ensure future generations of runners can continue to enjoy them.

Because the true spirit of trail running is not only about going further, but about doing so with respect for the environment that makes every adventure possible.