Kainuu Trail 2026 Heading for Record Numbers – Participation Limit Expected to be Reached Early
Published: 07.01.2026
Kainuu Trail 2026 Heading for Record Numbers – Participation Limit Expected to be Reached Early
The number of participants for the Kainuu Trail 2026 trail running event surged to record-breaking levels during the registration phase that ended at the turn of the year. By early January, 356 runners have already signed up, which is nearly 57% more than at the same time last year.
The current registration status shows that trail running on the magnificent pine-needle paths of Hossa National Park is attracting more enthusiasts than ever before. A comparison with the same date last year reveals exceptionally strong growth:
- Registered on Jan 7, 2026: 356 runners
- Registered on Jan 7, 2025: 227 runners
- Growth percentage: +56.8%
Forecast: The 700-Runner Participation Limit Will Be Reached During Spring 2026
Last summer, a total of 654 runners registered for Kainuu Trail. At the current pace, the calculated number of participants would clearly exceed a thousand runners. However, to protect the delicate nature of Hossa, the event's participation limit is strictly set at 700 runners.
Since more than half of all spots are already reserved by early January, it is highly probable that the event will be sold out well in advance of the summer.
– Of course, we are thrilled about this growth, but at the same time, we want to remind runners to secure their spots early. Currently, in our event permit granted by Metsähallitus, the limit of 700 runners is absolute, says Race Director Jukka Liuha.
Secure Your Spot Early and Take Advantage of Lower Entry Fees
We recommend that runners take advantage of the current registration fee tier and secure their place on the starting line now, while spots are still well available.
– Our next registration tier ends at the end of April, but if the participant quota is filled before then, we will have to close registration at that point, Liuha clarifies.
– Of course, there will be some cancellations during the spring and early summer, allowing us to release spots as they become available. However, I definitely recommend registering well in advance if the scenery and pleasant trails of Hossa National Park interest you.
Kainuu Trail offers distances for all levels of runners:
- 10 km: Open M/W (18 years or older)
- also separate series for boys and girls aged 12–17
- 21 km: Open M/W (18 years or older)
- 38 km: Open M/W (18 years or older)
- 55 km: Open M/W (18 years or older)
- 78 km: Open M/W (18 years or older)
Welcome to Hossa's stunning trails to enjoy the silence of the wilderness and the breathtaking landscapes of the National Park!
