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| The 2026 “Conquering Bach Ma Peak” Trail Run carrying the message of joining hands to preserve biodiversity. Photo: Minh Phuong |
Road for Speed, Trail for the Soul
Mr. Pham Cong Tuan, from Kim Long Ward, is affectionately known within the local running community as the ‘trail master’ behind many of Hue’s trail-running adventures. With nearly a decade of trail-running experience, he also leads Hue Mountain Marathon (HMM), a running group with more than 1,700 members in the Ancient Capital.
Previously, running was often associated with flat routes around parks, riverbanks, or city streets. Today, however, a growing number of runners are heading into the mountains and forests to challenge themselves on trails marked by steep climbs, rocky terrain, and stream crossings. As a result, trail running has grown rapidly in Hue in recent years.
According to Mr. Tuan, the appeal of trail running lies not only in its physical challenges but also in the opportunity to immerse oneself in nature. Each run offers participants a chance to step into the fresh, unspoiled surroundings of the mountains and forests.
Last May, HMM hosted its first Ultra Trail Marathon. From the Ultra Trail Marathon to its regular weekend runs, the community has attracted not only young runners but also many older women. Along winding forest trails, across steep hillsides and through shallow streams, the sights of women with silver-streaked hair striding confidently and tirelessly have been increasingly familiar.
Ms. Phuong Thao, born in 1963, from Phu Bai Ward, takes up trail running almost naturally. On weekdays, she runs on the road to build endurance. At weekends, she joins fellow runners to conquer mountain trails. “Many people tell me I’m too old to be a runner. But these are the moments when I truly feel alive, fully aware of every passing moment. During the week, I run on the road to build my fitness. On Sundays, I hit the trails with other members to pursue my passion. Road running gives me speed; trail running gives me emotion,” said Ms. Thao.
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| Hue’s trail-running community continues to grow. Photo: HMM |
Joy of the trails
Hon Vuon is at its most beautiful in the early morning, when a veil of mist still lingers, and the first rays of sunlight begin to emerge over the horizon. “My teammates and I hear nothing but the rhythmic sound of our trail shoes striking the ground and dry leaves crunching beneath our feet as we take in the breathtaking beauty of the mountains and forests. Some climbs are physically demanding, and there are times when we have to stop to catch our breath. But all it takes is a glance at the vast expanse of lush greenery ahead, and it feels as though every worry waiting below simply melts away. It's a feeling that words can hardly capture. It’s not that we conquer the mountain; rather, the mountain embraces us, and nature heals us,” said Ms. Thao.
“Trail running requires a pair of shoes with good traction. They not only help you run more efficiently but also provide better stability and safety on Hue’s winding forest trails. For women, sunscreen is almost an essential item,” said Ms. Thao.
In Hue, each trail offers its own unique appeal. While Hon Vuon Mountain is a popular choice for both beginners and those looking to test their limits, Kim Phung Mountain is known for its untouched beauty and steep, demanding climbs that challenge even experienced runners.
Ms. Hoang Phuong, from Phu Xuan Ward, said the A Roang trail in A Luoi 4 Commune was her most memorable route. On a cold, rainy morning in November, as the northeast monsoon approached, she and her fellow runners left the warmth of their beds and set off for A Roang at 4:30 a.m. They made their way through vast forests in the cold rain and the stillness of the predawn darkness. Covering nearly 30 kilometers with more than 600 meters of cumulative elevation gain, Phuong completed the trail in nearly 6 hours.
“After completing the trail, I sat by the fire and enjoyed the best chicken sticky rice I’ve ever had in A Roang, while a biting cold wind howled outside,” Phuong recalled with excitement. Perhaps it is these simple yet peaceful memories that have kept runners coming back to the sport.
In Hue, where mountains, rivers, forests, and the sea are not far away, trail running is opening up a new way for runners to immerse themselves in nature. Along these trails, enthusiasts keep moving forward through blazing sun, strong winds, challenging slopes, and even the limits of age to discover joy and recharge themselves with positive energy.