UTMB brings its trail running experience to Indonesia
'Trail of the Kings - Lake Toba' by UTMB® will make its debut on the UTMB® World Series calendar 17th to 19th October 2025, offering the UTMB® experience to Indonesia and the local trail running community for the very first time.
Held on the Samosir Island, a large volcanic island in Lake Toba, this brand-new event promises an unforgettable experience in one of Southeast Asia’s most culturally rich and geologically unique destinations.
A fast-growing region for trail running
With trail running continuing to gain momentum and grow in popularity across Asia, the event is a welcome and exciting opportunity for runners to experience the UTMB World Series adventure close to home. In 2024, almost 170,000 Asians and more than 6,500 Indonesians, held a valid UTMB Index. In total, 23,500 runners took part in Asian events on the UTMB World Series circuit in 2024, a clear demonstration of the strong and growing interest in trail running among the region’s population. The new Trail of Kings – Lake Toba by UTMB enhances the accessibility of trail running in the country and offers another opportunity to collect Running Stones.
An event anchored in the local history and local culture
Much more than just a race, the event pays tribute to the Bataknese heritage. The event’s name, Trail of Kings – Lake Toba by UTMB, reflects the legacy of the region’s ancestral kings who forged communities by carving paths through thick jungle and mountainous terrain. Now, trail runners are invited to follow in their footsteps across one of five race distances – 5K, 10K, 28K, 60K, and 100K – while honoring their ancestors and running with pride through sacred lands.
From rugged terrain and dense forests to the largest volcanic lake in the world, the natural beauty of Lake Toba is one of a kind. With local volunteers ready to greet runners at the aid stations throughout the course, the event promises to be filled with community celebrations, respect and gratitude for this truly unique part of the world.
As part of the UTMB World Series, all finishers will earn Running Stones to be able to enter the draw for the UTMB® World Series Finals.
Florian Lamblin, Executive Director for UTMB World Series notes “Trail of the Kings - Lake Toba by UTMB marks an important milestone for our circuit: the integration of our very first event in Indonesia, in the heart of one of Asia's most spectacular regions. The island of Samosir and Lake Toba offer a majestic setting steeped in history, in line with our intention to offer races that are deeply rooted in the local culture and the territories that host them. We are proud to collaborate with a passionate local team and to see the commitment of the communities, which will contribute to providing runners with a unique local UTMB experience.”
The Governor of North Sumatra, Muhammad Bobby Afif Nasution, S.E., M.M added “this event is not just a competition, but a significant opportunity to showcase the richness of North Sumatra. This event is expected to attract more foreign tourists, encourage economic growth in North Sumatra, especially the Lake Toba area, and elevate Lake Toba as a symbol of the revival of Indonesian sports tourism on the global stage.”
Ruth Theresia (IDN, UTMB Index 518 shared “having a UTMB event in my country is an absolute historical moment, not only for individuals but also for the communities. It’s an opportunity for Indonesia to exist into the global trail running scene showcasing the nature, the people, and culture. It also gives a chance to Indonesian athletes to chase their dreams, compete at a global level, and develop their skills. All eyes are waiting for it!”
Upi Supriatna (IDN, UTMB Index 722) enthused “Indonesia has amazing mountains and natural landscapes, mountains with unique and attractive tracks with favourable weather in every race, but Lake Toba offers something different to conquer. Put your best foot forward, show your smile. See you at the race.”
Entries for the 2025 Trail of the Kings – Lake Toba by UTMB will open to UTMB Index holders on 14th July, while general registrations open to all runners on 16th July as the event welcomes runners to come and ‘Live your legend at Lake Toba’.
The UTMB® World Series is the trail running circuit that brings together the best athletes in the sport and amateur runners in top international events held in some of the most beautiful places on the planet. Launched in May 2021 with the collaboration of UTMB Group and The IRONMAN Group, the UTMB® World Series circuit brings together 50 events in 28 countries. For more information
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