In recent years, Măng Đen LaLa Trail has become one of the most notable trail running events in Vietnam. Held in Măng Đen Town, Kon Plông District (now part of the Măng Đen area in Quảng Ngãi Province following administrative restructuring), the race offers athletes a unique opportunity to explore pristine forests, pine-covered hills, and the villages of indigenous communities. Less than 20% of the course consists of paved roads, with the majority traversing natural terrain.
Măng Đen LaLa Trail was established with the mission of not only organizing a trail running race but also promoting the beauty of Măng Đen, a destination often referred to as the "second Đà Lạt of the Central Highlands." From its earliest editions, the event has built its identity around unspoiled nature, a cool year-round climate, and the distinctive experience of running through lush forests. Its familiar motto, "Run Below the Leaves," encourages participants to immerse themselves in nature rather than focusing solely on competitive achievements.
The 2025 edition marked a significant increase in the race's visibility within the trail running community. Held in February, the event featured multiple race distances and attracted a large number of runners from both Vietnam and abroad. The routes passed through pine forests, waterfalls, farmlands, and areas inhabited by local ethnic minority communities. The 2025 race further reinforced Măng Đen's appeal as a destination that combines sports with experiential tourism.
The 2026 season was considered a major milestone for Măng Đen LaLa Trail as the race distance system was expanded. This development made the event more accessible to a wider range of participants, from beginners to experienced ultra-runners. Another notable feature was that more than 80% of the course remained on natural trail terrain, taking runners through primary forests and the characteristic highland landscapes of Măng Đen. The organizers also implemented strict mandatory gear requirements for longer distances to ensure participant safety. According to information from media outlets and related organizations, the 2026 edition attracted nearly 800 participants, demonstrating the race's growing popularity.
Măng Đen LaLa Trail 2027 continues to maintain its unique identity with a message encouraging runners to "slow down and truly experience the journey." The organizers introduced 5 km, 10 km, 25 km, and 50 km categories, providing suitable options for different groups of participants. The theme of the season focuses on exploring the layered ecosystems of the Măng Đen forest, from low-lying vegetation and moss-covered landscapes to its towering forest canopies.
From a relatively new trail running event, Măng Đen LaLa Trail has gradually become a familiar gathering point for Vietnam's trail running community. Year after year, the race has continued to expand in scale, diversify its race distances, and improve organizational quality while remaining true to its core value: connecting athletes with the pristine natural beauty of the Central Highlands. With its current momentum, Măng Đen LaLa Trail is expected to remain one of Vietnam's most attractive and inspiring trail running events in the years to come.
