Known for its dramatic landscape, New Zealand is unsurprisingly home to some world-famous hiking. From pristine lake routes to turquoise beaches and rugged alpine mountains, there's something here for every thrill seeker.
With headlining features, this trip will be one for the record books. Built for you, be the first to know when we've finished crafting the perfect trip of dramatic adventure and cultural indulgence. Seriously, you won't want to miss this.
Who Goes On A Trip?
Solo Travelers
CONNECT WITH YOUR CURIOSITY
You can arrive solo, but you're never alone. Surrounded by like-minded travelers, you just may find your new travel companion — and a new favorite hobby to boot!
Dating + Daring
ENTERTAIN NOVELTY
You may be partners, but that doesn't mean you want the "typical" romantic getaway. You two are more of the high-adventure type.
Hop on in!
Best Buds
LET MOMENTS BECOME MEMORIES
When's the last time your friends have had an excuse to get away? If smiling and laughing your butts off while exploring beautiful destinations isn't a good enough reason to get together, we don't know what is!
Turning a New Leaf
EMBOLDEN YOUR HEART
Chin up and feet forward! You're looking for change or at least a week to turn your back on whatever you left behind. Escape, refresh, and leave with a new perspective.
Our trail runs will take you into the countryside, where you'll feel like part of the iconic landscapes that drew us here. We'll have crew on course to mind you, markings to guide you, and finish line food to revive you.
You can take these runs at your own pace - or go for gold! At the end of the week everyone earns a finisher medal, plus special awards for our fastest racers.
RUN DIFFICULTY & TRAINING
A typical trip includes 6 trail runs ranging from 7-12K in length. Most of these runs will have a decent amount of elevation gain. It is not uncommon for us to walk the uphill portions and run when the terrain is flat or downhill. If you want to train, we recommend working up to back-to-back trail runs with varied elevation gain.
We ask runners to maintain at least a 20-minute trail pace on these runs.
NEW ZEALAND TRAIL RUNS
Exact trail runs may change based on permitting and weather!
Abel Tasman Coast Track Run
Route: Some elevation point-to-point
Terrain: Dirt and sand trail, loose rocks and roots
Level: Moderate
We'll get glimpses of the beach as we make our way between the shady jungle and the famous turquoise waters of Abel Tasman.
Brunner (Moana) Peninsula Run
Route: Mostly flat point-to-point
Terrain: Single-track dirt trail through the forest
Level: Easy to moderate
This lakeside route will give us a taste of New Zealand's diverse landscape. From beaches and jungle yesterday to lakes and forests today!
Cape Foulwind Walkway Run
Route: Some elevation point-to-point
Terrain: Gravel and grass trail
Level: Moderate
Don't let the name fool you, this lighthouse trail will reward us with rugged coastal landscapes and fresh air.
Lake Brunner (Moana) Run
Route: Point-to-point
Terrain: Mixed pavement and trail route
Level: Easy to moderate
Let's run along the lake for crystal mountain reflections and ancient forests.
Lake Tekapo/Glenmore Station Run
Route: Some elevation loop
Terrain: Grass and mud trail
Level: Moderate
We're running the first section of this famous trail.
Alps 2 Ocean Trail Run
Route: Flat point-to-point
Terrain: Gravel
Level: Easy
We'll enjoy wide open plains and majestic snow-capped mountains on this famous trail.
Moke Lake Hike
Route: Mainly flat loop
Terrain: Single track dirt trail
Level: Easy to moderate
This is a scenic hike with mountain views soaring up from a pristine lake.
Gallery
Video
About The Host
Cherie has been working with us since our inaugural run in Zion when she worked on the race crew, and since 2014, Cherie has brought the best expos and customer experience to our runners.
Cherie may live in Southern Utah but her soul still lives in Southern California where she grew up surfing and sailing in the sun.
Itinerary
Location
Things to keep in mind
FAQ
Will I need a passport or visa?
This is an international running adventure. A valid passport is required for participation. Though every country is different, a good rule to follow is that your passport should not expire within 6 months of your planned travel.
We do not anticipate that you will need a visa. However, visa requirements vary by country and by nationality. If you are unsure, please reach out to us and we will help you determine whether you will need to apply for a visa at all, in advance, or on arrival.
What are the hotels like?
We typically have 3-star lodging booked for you. Rooms will be comfortable, clean, and safe, but with no frills; a place that you would feel ok relaxing in!
On some adventures, we have alternative lodging like glamping tents. Check your itinerary and the photo gallery for pictures and additional information.
Who goes on trips?
From solo travelers to groups, teens to the silver-haired, seasoned thrill-seekers to those ready to step out of their comfort zone for the first time - these trips offer an experience for everyone. Our past adventurers come from all walks of life but all share a love of life and a willingness to challenge themselves.
Seriously. Don't be afraid to come alone. You are sure to leave with new friends, new confidence, and approximately 800 photos of moments that took your breath away!
How much free time will we have?
Our days start between 6:30-7:00 am for breakfast before we head out to run the trails. Expect to have a few hours of free time each afternoon to explore the towns we visit and take in the grandeur of the landscape. Our goal is to have enough adventure to fill your days without feeling rushed from location to location.
In addition, all trip will have 2 free evenings- you'll be able to walk around town and maybe stop by that cute pub you passed earlier in the day for dinner!
Can you accommodate dietary restrictions?
We can accommodate most dietary restrictions with some advance notice. Please fill out your traveler information in Run Signup after you register so that we can make plans successfully.
If you have a particularly specific or complex dietary requirement, please reach out to us. While we cannot guarantee full accommodations, we'll always try our best!
Are there any age restrictions?
There are no age restrictions for attending these running trips. As long as you are comfortable with the runs and activities, we'll be glad to have you whether you're 12 or 112 years old!
Some of our trips do involve alcohol-oriented events like whiskey tastings, so please keep this in mind. For activity-specific restrictions, read below:
Patagonia Trips: The glacier hike is restricted to ages 64 and under. Individuals 65 and older are not permitted to participate, but we will try to find an alternate activity for them.
Ireland Trips: The whiskey-tasting event is 21+
What Covid-19 measures are being taken?
While much of these trips are spent in the great outdoors, there's still a level of risk with any travel. Here's what we can do to limit that risk:
First, While we will no longer require the vaccine, we strongly encourage everyone traveling with us to make sure you're aware of the Covid-19 travel restrictions of each country you will visit or pass through on a layover.
Second, we have a staff medic on each trip. Please let us know right away if you have any symptoms or just need a test for travel purposes. They will be able to help you locate and schedule Covid testing as needed. We will also have rapid tests and masks on hand.
Lastly, staying healthy is a group effort. We ask all our adventurers to respect each other's boundaries and preferences. If you remain unsure of the risks, we encourage you to wait to take a trip until you feel confident joining us!
How difficult are the runs?
These trips are meant to challenge you. That being said, we welcome runners of various levels and will support you toward the finish line.
Each day we’ll be running/hiking between 7-12K (approx. 3-6 miles). Most of these runs will have a decent amount of elevation gain. It is not uncommon for us to walk the uphill portions and run when the terrain is flat or downhill.
We plan for runners to maintain at least a 20-minute trail pace on these runs. If we believe this pace becomes too difficult for a runner, we may ask them to sit out a run or offer a shorter course for them.
Do I have to run every day?
This is your vacation- you should do what you want!
If you want to take a break for a day or two, then by all means do it. Our goal is to make sure you have the best possible experience on the trails, whatever that means for you.
Are there aid stations?
There are no aid stations in these trail runs.
Most adventurers choose to wear a hydration backpack or carry a water bottle in hand (along with a few gels or other snacks as needed).
You are required to bring your own hydration system. Our team loves the hydration options developed by Nathan Sports.
Will we run into animals on the trails?
If you are lucky, you’ll get to see some local wildlife (Moose, goats, whales, oh my!) We will be visiting wild places and encounters with animals are always a possibility. However, we will be on well-traveled trails which tend to keep the animals away.
All trips partner with expert guides from the area to provide tips on staying safe on the trails. Mosquitos will vary greatly with the climate and even change year to year. We recommend packing mosquito repellent.
Can I bring someone who doesn't run?
If you want to bring a partner to the event that doesn’t want to participate in the runs, that’s totally fine. They'll still get to join in the daily activities and explore the destination - just not on the trails.
Just sign up for the event as a regular participant, but let us know in the registration notes that your partner is not running.
What other activities will we be doing?
Each trip is different - expect a range of activities like historical tours, boat cruises, hands-on workshops, and more!
For activities specific to this trip, check out the itinerary. You'll also receive a detailed daily itinerary a few weeks before your arrival date.