Trail des Reculées

Trail des Reculées: Trail Adventure in a Unique Geological Setting

For over twenty years, the Trail des Reculées has invited runners to discover the most spectacular landscapes of the Jura, starting from Lons-le-Saunier. The 'reculées', these narrow valleys bordered by limestone cliffs reaching up to 200 meters high, offer an exceptional playground for trail running, combining technical trails, forest paths, cliff ascents, and breathtaking panoramas.

Four Race Formats

The Trail des Reculées offers four formats adapted to all levels:

• La Charismatique (55 km, 2,000 m D+): the main event, a demanding ultra-trail crossing the most beautiful 'reculées' of the Jura
• L'Emblématique (39 km, 1,400 m D+): the benchmark format, a technical and challenging trail
• L'Énigmatique (24 km, 750 m D+): an intermediate difficulty trail, ideal for progressing runners
• L'Initiatique (11 km, 350 m D+): a discovery format accessible to all

Secret Routes

One of the unique features of the Trail des Reculées is its secret routes. The courses for L'Emblématique and L'Énigmatique are only revealed on race day, adding a dimension of adventure and exploration to the event. Runners discover the course in real-time, guided by markings, with no possibility of prior reconnaissance. The races are certified by ITRA (International Trail Running Association).

The 'Reculées', Geological Jewels of the Jura

The Jura 'reculées' are unique geological formations in France, resulting from the erosion of limestone plateaus by rivers. These dead-end valleys, bordered by steep cliffs and covered with forests, are home to remarkable biodiversity and landscapes of striking beauty. The Reculée de Baume-les-Messieurs, the Reculée des Planches-près-Arbois, and the cliffs overlooking Lons-le-Saunier are among the sites crossed by the runners.

An Event Rooted in the Territory

The Trail des Reculées contributes to the tourist and sporting promotion of the Jura department, highlighting an exceptional natural heritage. The event brings together runners from all over France and abroad each year, attracted by the beauty of the routes and the originality of the concept.