Trail running has recently gained immense popularity. It allows people to traverse mountains, forests and coastlines, enhancing their mental and physical health. Between 2013 and 2019, at least 25,700 trail races were held in 195 countries, with around 1.77 million participants worldwide. These figures prove that trail running has the potential to change a region’s cultural and economic landscape drastically.

Economies such as New Zealand, the United States and Hong Kong have managed to sustain social development and nature conservation through the proper use of trails. While some would argue that Hong Kong is a concrete jungle, over 300 km of well-carved-out trails entice foreign runners, providing a much-needed sanctuary to people. The 3,500-kilometre-long Appalachian trail in the US attracts millions of people and is famous for being strenuous. Likewise, New Zealand seems to have adopted trail running as part of its self-image, as numerous events like the Kepler Challenge and the Routeburn Classic attract more than 2,000 participants because of its stunning variety of geographical features.

Practices in Kenya and Uganda also offer a different perspective on trail running. Long-distance running is essential to Kenyan society and culture, with solid training, fundamental structure, sponsorship and megastar events supporting it. This booming industry generates over $50 million annually, demonstrating how focused plans can turn a sport into a valuable and significant revenue source. Nepal’s diverse geography and landscapes are ideal for replicating this model. The country could foster a culture of athletic excellence while stimulating its economy by marketing its trails as premier destinations for global trail running events.

Economic impact

Trail running opportunities extend from tourism to economic benefits for the community and the nation. Tourists who engage in such activities, as well as sponsors and spectators, boost the local economy by buying food and accommodation, renting means of transport and sometimes staying longer for other purposes than just visiting the area. Factors that contribute to the sport's popularity, such as the sales of various gear, sponsorships and paid entries, also help raise funds for upkeeping trails and supporting ecotourism. According to a Grand View report, the worldwide trail running shoe market stood at $7.3 billion in 2022 and is anticipated to increase to approximately $13.4 billion by 2030.

Furthermore, trail running promotes social benefits such as fitness and health, which translates to reduced healthcare expenses and encourages fitness tourism. Alongside creating seasonal employment opportunities, this boosts the market price of the houses around the area and strengthens the community’s social capital. Furthermore, trail running events can highlight local culture and heritage, brand regions as adventure destinations and contribute to diversified, sustainable economies.

Potential and challenges

Nepal’s diverse landscapes and terrains—from the Terai plains at 60 metres above sea level to the towering Himalayan peaks, including eight of the world’s 14 highest mountains—make it an ideal destination for trail running. The Great Himalaya Trail (GHT) and others can become a world-class event. However, the country has failed to leverage such resources because of a lack of proper coordination in governance, inadequate trail upkeep and inadequate marketing. Even though 60 percent of international tourists are interested in trekking and mountaineering, trail running has not received the attention it deserves. A focused approach to integrating trail running into the tourism industry could significantly diversify Nepal’s offerings and draw a broader demographic of adventure enthusiasts.

Nepal faces multiple hurdles in promoting itself as one of the ideal locations for trail running. Compared to other sports, no funding is available to sports organisations related to trail running. There is also an absence of a consolidated body managing all trails. Further, there isn’t a single platform to advertise Nepal’s trail-running possibilities, making it difficult for people to know about these trails. Even though Trail Running Nepal is working to develop the sport within the country, it isn’t big enough and lacks sufficient resources to develop it internationally.

Way forward

A national trail management board must be formed to improve trail-running opportunities in Nepal. The board should coordinate with local governments, tourism boards and environmental agencies to enforce trail standards and ensure safety and sustainability. Through global partnerships and campaigns, this integrated approach could market Nepal's Great Himalayan Trail and other trekking routes globally. Training local athletes and supporting Nepali sportspeople would create a new breed of trail runners and put Nepal on the global radar. Nepal also needs a strong marketing strategy and coordinated governance to compete with countries that have leveraged trail running and expanded their tourism industry.