About The Race
Ultra Trail Kempen
A Challenging Ultra Run
The Ultra Trail Kempen is a challenging ultra run through the heart of the Belgian Kempen, a region known for its vast forests, winding sandy paths and quiet natural areas. With distances of 100 miles, 100 km and 50 km, this event offers the ultimate test for both experienced ultra runners and adventurous trail runners who want to push their limits.
Pure Nature Experience
What makes the Ultra Trail Kempen unique is the combination of pure nature experience and typical Kempen hospitality. Runners make their way through vast heathlands, past picturesque ponds and over narrow single tracks that make you feel completely disconnected from the inhabited world. Along the way, participants get a glimpse of the region's rich heritage: old forest lanes, quiet chapels and the characteristic Kempen sandy soils.
Vast Forests
Winding sandy pathsHeathlands
Picturesque pondsRich Heritage
Quiet chapelsHospitality
Local warmthMore than a Race
The event is more than a race; it is a journey of discovery through a landscape that can be both soothing and merciless. The long distances require endurance, mental resilience and perseverance, but reward runners with an intense connection with nature and with themselves. With aid stations that radiate warmth, support and local atmosphere, each participant is carried by the unique energy of the Kempen.
Essence of Trail Running
The Ultra Trail Kempen wants to become a fixture within the Belgian ultra trail world, but at the same time cherish its local roots. Here no mass tourism or grand spectacle, but an event that remains true to the essence of trail running: simplicity, adventure, nature and community.
Race information
- When: 31/10/2026 - 01/11/2026
- Where:Sporthal Mintjens - Malle
- Registrations close:14/10/2026
- Maximum participants: 350
Practical
Info
Zaterdag 31 oktober
Day 1Zondag 01 november
Day 2Important Information
Please note these timesTime Limits
Each distance has its own time limit
This must be strictly respectedBib Collection
1h30 before your race start
Please arrive on timePre-Race Briefing
10 minutes before your race start
Mandatory attendancePrize Ceremony
30 minutes after top 3 finish
First 3 men and women per distance- Bib collection opens 1h30 before each race start time
- Pre-race briefing is mandatory - 10 minutes before start
- Time limits are strictly enforced for safety reasons
We are working hard on finalizing the routes. GPX files will be published as soon as possible.
50km
- Type: Trail loop
- Elevation gain: 40m D+
- Terrain: Forest, heath, sandy paths
- GPX: Available soon
100km
- Type: Trail loop
- Elevation gain: 106m D+
- Terrain: Forest, heath, sandy paths
- GPX: Available soon
160km
- Type: Trail loop
- Elevation gain: 357m D+
- Terrain: Forest, heath, sandy paths
- GPX: Available soon
Route Marking
The entire course will be clearly marked with colored ribbons and reflective arrows for night passages.
Navigation
A GPS watch or smartphone with GPX track is strongly recommended as backup for the course marking.
Trail Etiquette
Respect other trail users. Faster runners have priority, keep right where possible.
Road Crossings
The course crosses some roads. Always follow traffic rules and wait for green lights at traffic signals.
Follow our social media and website to be the first to know when GPX files become available.
A complete list of checkpoint locations, time limits and available facilities will be published as soon as possible.
Aid Stations Overview
Along the course there are aid stations every 15-20km where you can refuel. Some stations offer hot meals and a dropbag service during your challenge.
Regular Aid Stations
Available every 15-20km:
- Water & sports drinks
- Fresh fruit (bananas, oranges)
- Energy gels & bars
- Sweet & salty snacks
- Cola & caffeine
Hot Meal Stations
At strategic points along the longer distances:
- Warm soup
- Pasta or rice dishes
- Hot tea & coffee
- Sandwiches
- Medical support available
- Locations announced soon
Cutoff Times Enforced
Each aid station has a time limit. Participants who arrive too late will be removed from the race.
Crew Support
Personal crew may support you at aid stations, but not on the course itself.
Dropbag Service
100km
1 dropbagFor the 100km there is access to one dropbag at a strategic point halfway through the course.
- Location announced as soon as possible
- Bags must be labeled with name and bib number provided by the organisation
160km
2 dropbagsFor the 160km there are two dropbag locations to resupply with personal items during your race.
- Locations announced as soon as possible
- Bags must be labeled with name and bib number provided by the organisation
- Include extra socks, clothing and personal nutrition
- Label your bag clearly with name and bib number
- Max. 10L per dropbag
- Bags are collected during bib collection
Mandatory Equipment
Recommended Equipment
Mandatory Equipment
Recommended Equipment
Mandatory Equipment
Recommended Equipment
Mandatory Equipment
Recommended Equipment
Mandatory Equipment
Recommended Equipment
Mandatory equipment may be checked during bib collection. Participants without the required equipment will not be allowed to start. Random checks may also be performed along the route. The organization reserves the right to disqualify participants without the required equipment. Check your gear thoroughly before the event!
Parking
Ample and secure parking available on site
- Free parking
- Large capacity
- Secured area
Facilities
Sporthal Mintjens offers all necessary amenities
- Showers available
- Changing rooms with bag storage
- Sanitary facilities
Public Transport
Accessible by public transport
- Zoersel Station (4 km)
- Turnhout Station (17 km)
- Bus X41 (Turnhout - Malle Centrum)
By Car
Easily accessible via highways
- From Antwerp: ±15 min via E34
- From Brussels: ±45 min via E19
- From Hasselt: ±60 min via E313
Arrive on time to collect your bib number calmly and attend the briefing. Parking can be busy just before the start.
Race Rules
Read the official race rules and safety guidelines for all participants.
Terms & Conditions
Review the general terms and conditions for participation in this event.
Sustainability Charter
View our commitment to preserving nature and the environment during the event.
By participating in this event, you agree to the race rules and terms & conditions. Please read these documents carefully before registering.
Races
Register
UTK 50K - WALK
- Distance: 50 km
- UTMB Index: -
- D+: 40 m
- Location: Malle
- Start: zaterdag 08:00u
- Cutoff: 14 hours
- Participants: 2/100
- Price: 70 EUR
UTK 50K - RUN
- Distance: 50 km
-
UTMB Index:
- D+: 40 m
- Location: Malle
- Start: zondag 07:00u
- Cutoff: 9 hours
- Participants: 9/100
- Price: 70 EUR
UTK 100K - WALK
- Distance: 100 km
- UTMB Index: -
- D+: 106 m
- Location: Malle
- Start: zaterdag 08:00u
- Cutoff: 25 hours
- Participants: 3/50
- Price: 100 EUR
UTK 100K - RUN
- Distance: 100 km
-
UTMB Index:
- D+: 106 m
- Location: Malle
- Start: zaterdag 05:00u
- Cutoff: 19 hours
- Participants: 19/50
- Price: 100 EUR
UTK 100M - RUN
- Distance: 160 km
-
UTMB Index:
- D+: 357 m
- Location: Malle
- Start: zaterdag 06:00u
- Cutoff: 32 hours
- Participants: 28/50
- Price: 130 EUR
Media & More
Pictures - Videos
Contact
Reach out
Organized by
Trail Buddies Kempen vzw
www.trailbuddieskempen.be
info@trailbuddieskempen.be
BE 0796.679.979