Grand Trail du Canigó

An exceptional event in the sacred mountain

The Grand Trail du Canigó is more than a mountain race: it is a human and solidarity adventure in the heart of the Canigó massif, classified as a Grand Site de France. Since 2007, the association Courir et Découvrir has been organizing this demanding event which takes runners from the village of La Bastide (800 m altitude) to the summit of Canigó (2,784 m), through wild landscapes and remarkable mining heritage.

A technical and grandiose course

The 57.7 km route with 3,930 m of positive elevation gain follows varied trails: oak and beech forests, mountain pastures, rocky ridges, and technical high mountain passages. Since the 2023 edition, the route includes the discovery of the Pinosa and Manerottes mines, witnesses to the massif's mining past. Aid stations punctuate the route: Baillestavy (km 10), Mas Malet refuge (km 17), and Cortalets refuge (km 27), with strict time barriers.

A solidarity commitment

The unique feature of the Grand Trail du Canigó lies in its solidarity dimension. Since its creation, the association Courir et Découvrir (founded in 1992) donates all profits to associations working for the socialization of people with intellectual disabilities in the Pyrénées-Orientales. Running for a cause, climbing Canigó for others: this is the spirit of this ultra-trail like no other.

An intimate and demanding format

Limited to 150 participants, the Grand Trail du Canigó favors authenticity and conviviality. The start at 6 am from the village of La Bastide, in the low light of the Pyrenean dawn, offers a moment of shared emotion. The race awards 3 ITRA points and is a significant challenge for seasoned trail runners.