Nine summits, one loop — South Korea's ultimate mountain test
A multi-peak epic through the Yeongnam Alps, the 9PEAKS traverses nine mountain summits above 1,000 meters — Ganwolsan, Goheonsan, Munboksan, Gajisan, Unmunsan, Tienhwangsan, Jaeyaksan, Yeongchuksan, and Sinbulsan — in a single continuous loop. With nearly 9,200 meters of accumulated vertical gain and a 40-hour cutoff, it is the most demanding trail race in South Korea. The course requires mandatory night running through rugged autumn terrain, passing through remote ridge systems and forested valleys of the Yeongnam Alps. It serves as a Western States 100 qualifying race and grants finishers 50 guaranteed entry spots to the legendary Tor des Géants.
Recommended for seasoned ultrarunners
Ulsan, South KoreaOctober 30, 2026
Must complete a 50K race or longer within the qualification window
Must submit proof of completing a trail race of 50K or longer distance. An official GPS file from a verified race device (Garmin, Suunto, etc.) is required at check-in. Standalone app-based proof (Strava, etc.) is not accepted. Requirement must be uploaded or verified prior to race day.
| Location | km | Elevation |
|---|---|---|
START Start | 0.0 | 227 m |
Waypoint 11 Aid Station | 0.0 | 227 m |
N1 Aid Station | 14.3 | 157 m |
N2 Aid Station | 29.1 | 492 m |
N3 Aid Station | 38.1 | 252 m |
N4 Aid Station | 44.7 | 1,022 m |
N5 Aid Station | 56.5 | 158 m |
N6 Aid Station | 65.3 | 526 m |
N7 Aid Station | 75.0 | 355 m |
N8 Aid Station | 90.1 | 228 m |
N9 Aid Station | 93.9 | 781 m |
Sign in to see cutoffs, crew access, drop bags, and services for every aid station.
Late October in the Yeongnam Alps brings crisp autumn conditions with daytime temperatures typically 5–15°C and nighttime temperatures dropping to near or below freezing above 1,000 meters. The race coincides with peak autumn foliage season, offering spectacular scenery. Runners should expect mandatory night running in cold, potentially wet conditions, and strong wind on exposed ridgelines between peaks. Fog is common in mountain valleys. All participants are required to carry a waterproof jacket as mandatory gear.
Nighttime temperatures drop to near or below freezing at ridgeline elevations; waterproof and insulating layers required
Exposed ridgelines between all nine summits subject to strong winds; particularly significant above 1,000m
Mountain weather can change rapidly; rain, fog, and sudden cold fronts possible throughout the race window
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