Trail Nocturne des Portes de Meuse
Night nature race in the Saulx valley
About Trail Nocturne
The Trail Nocturne des Portes de Meuse is a night-time nature race event that takes place in the Saulx valley, starting from L'Isle-en-Rigault, near Haironville. Offering distances from 5 to 31 km, this night trail provides a unique racing experience in the Meuse forests and paths illuminated by headlamps. The event welcomes both seasoned trail runners and families with a 5 km race and a 1 km children's race, as well as a 12 km night hike.
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Trail Nocturne des Portes de Meuse: The Night Adventure
The Trail Nocturne des Portes de Meuse is a unique sporting event that offers a night-time nature race experience in the preserved setting of the Saulx valley. Every September, hundreds of runners set off with headlamps on, into the forests and paths of southern Meuse to live an unforgettable night adventure.
Distances for All Profiles
The event offers a complete range of formats adapted to all levels:
- 31 km Night Trail: the ultimate challenge for experienced trail runners, a demanding course through the forests and hills of the Saulx valley in complete darkness
- 12 km Night Trail: an intermediate format ideal for discovering the sensations of night trail running without too many kilometers
- 5 km Family Race: an accessible course for everyone to experience the night-time atmosphere with family or friends
- 12 km Night Hike: for those who prefer to walk and enjoy the night atmosphere at their own pace
- 1 km Children's Race: a fun and safe introduction for the youngest
The Saulx Valley, a Preserved Natural Setting
The Trail Nocturne routes cross the landscapes of the Saulx valley, a tributary of the Ornain in the south of the Meuse. This area, in the heart of the Portes de Meuse territory, offers a rich natural environment: deciduous forests, wet meadows, forest paths, and passages along the river. Night running adds a unique sensory dimension, where hearing and proprioception take over from sight.
A Unifying Event
Organized by the community of communes Portes de Meuse, the Trail Nocturne is an event that brings together the inhabitants of the territory and attracts runners from all over the Grand Est region. The warm atmosphere of the starting village, the encouragement of volunteers along the course, and the conviviality of the post-race make it a popular event for loyal participants.
The Magic of Night Running
Running at night provides unique sensations: the beam of the headlamp illuminating the trail, the sounds of the forest amplified by the darkness, the increased concentration on each stride. The Trail Nocturne des Portes de Meuse offers this experience in a safe and marked environment, allowing everyone to push their limits in an extraordinary setting.
Trail Nocturne — edition 2026
The Trail Nocturne des Portes de Meuse 2026 is expected in September, with distances of 31 km, 12 km, 11 km, 5 km, and 1 km. Exact dates will be announced later.
2026 Edition - September
The Trail Nocturne des Portes de Meuse returns in September 2026 for a new edition. The proposed distances will be 31 km, 12 km, 11 km, 5 km, and 1 km. Precise dates and registration details will be communicated during 2026.
Prices Trail Nocturne 2026
Practical information — Trail Nocturne
Practical Information
Access and Transport
By car: L'Isle-en-Rigault is located between Bar-le-Duc and Saint-Dizier, accessible via the D2 and D384. The village is about 15 km south of Bar-le-Duc and 20 km north of Saint-Dizier. Free parking is available near the start area, with signage set up on the day of the race to guide participants.
By train: The nearest station is Bar-le-Duc, served by TER Grand Est and TGV from Paris-Est (approx. 1h15). From the station, a car journey of about 15 minutes is necessary. Carpooling is often organized among participants via the event's social media.
Start and Finish Location
The start and finish are located in L'Isle-en-Rigault, a commune near Haironville in the Saulx valley, southern Meuse. A starting village is set up with partner stands, a changing room area, and a catering point.
Registration
Registration is done online on the Wanatime platform. Payment by credit card is mandatory via the secure platform. It is recommended to register in advance as places can be limited. A medical certificate of non-contraindication to competitive running is required for timed races.
Prices
- 31 km Night Trail: 26 euros
- 12 km Night Trail: 11 euros
- 5 km Family Race: 6 euros
- 12 km Night Hike: 6 euros
- 1 km Children's Race: 3 euros
Mandatory Equipment
A headlamp is mandatory for all night races. It is strongly recommended to have a powerful headlamp (minimum 200 lumens) as well as a backup light with charged batteries or power cells. Reflective clothing is advised for better visibility. For the 31 km trail, a hydration system, a charged mobile phone, and an emergency blanket may be required.
Aid Stations and Safety
Lit aid stations are set up along the routes, offering water, isotonic drinks, and solid food. A full finish line refreshment is provided to all participants. The safety measures include first responders, light signals on the course, and a first aid station at the starting village.
Catering
A catering area is available at the starting village, with hot meals, hot and cold drinks, and snacks for companions and runners after their effort.
Accommodation
For participants coming from afar, accommodation is available in Bar-le-Duc and surrounding towns (hotels, gîtes, B&Bs). Advance booking is recommended.
Contact
Check the Facebook page Trail Nocturne des Portes de Meuse or the website portesdemeuse.fr for any information.
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Travel to this festival
Book your train or bus to reach Trail Nocturne at the best price.
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Where does it take place — Trail Nocturne
L'Isle-en-Rigault