Trail Enguerrand

A trail on the lands of the Lords of Coucy

Created in 2022, the Trail Enguerrand takes its name from Enguerrand Ier de Coucy, who acquired the domain around 1085 and participated in the First Crusade with his son Thomas. The dynasty of the Lords of Coucy had one of the most imposing castles in Europe built, the majestic ruins of which still dominate the Ailette valley today. It is in this exceptional historical setting that runners set off each year in April, covering forest and country paths steeped in eight centuries of history.

Three courses for all levels

The Trail Enguerrand offers three trail races adapted to different runner profiles, as well as a leisure walk and youth races:

• Trail des Sires (30 km, 760 m D+): the main event, a demanding course that takes runners through the deep forests and valleys of Laonnois, with technical sections and remarkable panoramas of the fortified city. Start at 2:45 PM, open to runners aged 20 and over.
• Trail de la Vallée (15 km, 420 m D+): an intermediate course along the Ailette valley, offering a good balance between effort and discovery of the Picardy bocage landscapes. Start at 3:00 PM, accessible from age 18.
• Trail du Château (10 km, 245 m D+): a discovery trail ideal for beginners or those who want to fully enjoy the medieval heritage of Coucy. Start at 3:15 PM, open from age 16.
• Marche Loisir (11 km, 220 m D+): a friendly walk open to all, priced at 5 euros.
• Trails de Ronde: races for young people aged 9 to 15 (1.2 km and 1.6 km), free of charge.

A solidarity and local commitment

Organized by U.A. Chauny (Union Athlétique de Chauny) in partnership with the Lion's Club Chaunois and the association Bandits du Pont des Tripes of Coucy-la-Ville, the Trail Enguerrand stands out for its solidarity commitment: for each participation, a donation of 4 euros is given to the Enfants Cancer Santé association. Each race is limited to 300 participants, ensuring careful organization and a friendly experience. A meal is offered to runners upon arrival, with sausages, white beans, and apple pie.

Coucy-le-Château-Auffrique, medieval setting

The city of Coucy-le-Château-Auffrique, perched on a rocky outcrop overlooking the Ailette valley, preserves impressive vestiges of its medieval past: ramparts, fortified towers, and the ruins of the monumental keep which, with its 54 meters in height and 31 meters in diameter, was the largest keep in Europe before its destruction in 1917. The trail paths cross the surrounding forests and offer striking views of this exceptional military architecture, a listed historic monument.