With several high-profile events, Garda Trentino is once again positioning itself in May 2026 as one of the leading trail running destinations in Europe. Around the northern shores of Lake Garda, international elite athletes, ambitious recreational runners, and beginners alike encounter spectacular landscapes, technically demanding courses, and a dense network of permanent trails. Two major events take center stage: the Ledro Sky Trentino and the Garda Trentino Trail. Rounding out the sports program is the first-ever European Outdoor Week in Riva del Garda.
Golden Trail World Series in the Ledro Valley
On May 24, 2026, the Ledro Sky Trentino takes place. Following its role as the Golden Trail World Series finale in October 2025, the race is now an official part of the international race series, making it one of the most important competitions in the global trail running calendar. The 21-kilometer course with approximately 1,700 meters of elevation gain starts and finishes in Pieve di Ledro. The route initially climbs steeply up Monte Cocca to Bocca Saval, then continues along the scenic ridge of the Senter de le Greste, linking Cima Parì, Cima Sclapa, and Cima d'Oro. This section is considered the scenic highlight of the race, offering sweeping views over the Ledro Valley and the surrounding peaks.
The descent passes through the meadows of Dromaè and by historic trenches from World War I before athletes return to the start via the Ledro Trek Low in Mezzolago. The Trofeo Damiano Gnuffi is awarded to the fastest female and male runner on the ridge section between Cima Parì and Cima d'Oro. On May 23, the Mini Ledro Sky Trentino youth competition takes place for young runners. More than 200 volunteers from the region ensure organization and safety along the course.
Garda Trentino Trail: A Variety of Courses Around Three Lakes
From May 15 to 17, the Garda Trentino Trail returns for its eleventh edition. The event combines athletic challenge with the landscapes surrounding Lake Garda, Lake Ledro, and Lake Tenno. Several distances are available. The 62-kilometer Garda Trentino Trail starts in Riva del Garda and winds through demanding climbs, technical passages, and panoramic paths along Lake Garda and through the Ledro Valley. The 44-kilometer Ledro Trail begins in Molina di Ledro, combining alpine paths with shaded forest sections and impressive views of Lake Ledro. The 30-kilometer Tenno Trail starts in Arco and loops around Lake Tenno, passing through historic villages. For beginners , the 12-kilometer Garda Trentino Castle Run is an ideal choice, with the castle of Arco as its scenic centerpiece.
The program is complemented by the Garda Trentino Trail Extra, a challenging ultra format spanning three days with distances of 100 and 150 kilometers for experienced ultra runners. Beyond the events, Garda Trentino offers a dense network of permanent trails. Recommended routes include circuits around Tenno, the Comano Ursus Extreme Trail, and the panoramic Coste di Bariolo. The varied course profiles allow for year-round training, making the region an attractive destination for trail runners well beyond the competitive season.
European Outdoor Week in Riva del Garda
From May 14 to 19, the European Outdoor Week will be held for the first time in Riva del Garda . The event is aimed at representatives of the outdoor and sports industry as well as sports enthusiasts. The program includes product testing, presentations, trade sessions, and guided outdoor activities centered around the 2026 season. With its combination of international competitions, permanent training opportunities, and an accompanying industry event, Garda Trentino reinforces its standing in May 2026 as one of the most important outdoor regions in the Alpine area.