About this event
Santa Cruz Extreme 2026 is set to captivate trail runners on Saturday, 17 October 2026 in Santa Cruz de Tenerife. This event invites athletes into the dramatic mountains, ravines, and ancient laurel forests of the Anaga Rural Park, offering four challenging distances: 42K, 25K, 18K, and 10K. It's a demanding yet unforgettable way to experience Tenerife beyond its beaches."Santa Cruz Extreme is more than a race; it's an adventure through one of the Canary Islands' most striking natural areas."The Story of Santa Cruz ExtremeTenerife's Premier Mountain-Running EventSince its inception, Santa Cruz Extreme has grown into one of Tenerife's most significant mountain-running events. Now in its 12th edition, the race combines technical terrain, steep climbs, narrow trails, volcanic ridges, and spectacular Atlantic views. It's the perfect challenge for athletes seeking an authentic island trail-running experience.The courses lead runners from Plaza de España in Santa Cruz de Tenerife to the wild northern landscapes of Anaga, a region renowned for its rugged beauty.What to Expect at Santa Cruz ExtremeAn Adventure Through Anaga's WildernessSanta Cruz Extreme is not your typical coastal run. It connects the urban coastline of Santa Cruz with the rugged natural environment of the Anaga Rural Park, one of Tenerife's oldest geological regions.Runners can expect steep ascents, technical descents, narrow paths, volcanic terrain, forest tracks, and rocky trails.Steep ascentsTechnical descentsNarrow pathsVolcanic terrainForest tracksRocky trailsHumid laurel forestOpen ridge linesChanging weatherAtlantic viewsUrban-to-mountain route transitionsA strong trail-running community atmosphereAnaga Rural Park: Tenerife's Wild SideA UNESCO Biosphere ReserveThe Anaga Rural Park, setting for Santa Cruz Extreme 2026, is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve located in the north-east of Tenerife. Known for its ancient laurel forest, laurisilva, and dramatic landscapes, it offers a unique challenge for trail runners.Ancient laurel forestMist and cloud coverDeep ravinesSharp ridgesTraditional mountain hamletsCoastal cliffsRugged Atlantic beachesEndemic plant lifeHigh humidity in forest areasStrong winds on exposed ridgesDramatic viewpointsExploring the Race DistancesFrom 10K to 42K: Choose Your ChallengeSanta Cruz Extreme offers four race categories, each presenting its own set of challenges and rewards.Santa Cruz Extreme 42KThe Anaga XTRM 42K is the longest and most demanding route, covering approximately 42 kilometres of technical terrain with steep elevation changes.Experienced trail runnersMountain-marathon athletesRunners comfortable with technical descentsAthletes with strong hill-running fitnessParticipants experienced in hydration and nutrition managementTrail runners who can adapt to weather changesSanta Cruz Extreme 25KThe Anaga XTRM 25K offers a serious mountain-running challenge with around 1,460 metres of positive elevation gain.Intermediate to advanced trail runnersStrong road runners moving into mountain racesAthletes comfortable with climbingRunners seeking a full Anaga experience without a marathon distanceSanta Cruz Extreme 18KThe Anaga XTRM 18K is a challenging middle-distance route with approximately 1,135 metres of positive elevation gain.Runners with hill experienceActive travellersTrail-running beginners with solid preparationSanta Cruz Extreme 10KThe Anaga XTRM 10K offers a manageable introduction to mountain running with around 361 metres of positive elevation gain.First-time trail racersVisitors new to mountain runningRoad runners looking for a new challengeRegistration and FeesSecure Your SpotRegistration for Santa Cruz Extreme 2026 closes on Wednesday, 14 October 2026 at 4:00 p.m. Canary Islands time. Early registration is advised as trail events can reach capacity quickly.Anaga XTRM 42K: €50Anaga XTRM 25K: €40Anaga XTRM 18K: €35Anaga XTRM 10K: €30Check the registration page for details on race regulations, age requirements, medical forms, and more.Training for Santa Cruz ExtremePreparing for the ChallengeSanta Cruz Extreme demands more than fitness; it requires trail skill, climbing strength, and confidence on uneven ground.Build Your EnduranceTrain regularly over several months. The longer your selected race, the more time you need to build safely.One long trail run each weekOne hill sessionOne easy recovery runOne strength sessionOne technical trail sessionOne rest dayOptional hiking or cyclingPractise Uphill PowerAnaga's steep terrain rewards efficient climbing. Train with hill repeats and stair sessions to build strength.Learn Downhill ControlDescending can be the hardest part of a trail race. Practise maintaining balance and controlling speed on technical descents.What to Wear and CarryEssential Gear for the RaceBe prepared for mountain conditions. Recommended gear includes:Trail-running shoes with strong gripHydration vest or beltWindproof jacketLightweight waterproof layerEnergy gels or snacksPhone in waterproof pouchBasic blister suppliesLayering is essential as weather can vary greatly between Santa Cruz and Anaga trails.Where to Stay for Santa Cruz ExtremeAccommodations for Every PreferenceChoose from a variety of accommodations to suit your needs during the event.Santa Cruz de TenerifeThe best base for race logistics, close to Plaza de España and other essential services.La LagunaA UNESCO-listed city with historic streets and cooler temperatures, just 15 to 25 minutes from Santa Cruz.TagananaA remote Anaga village ideal for those seeking a nature-focused stay. Best for runners with rental cars.Playa de las TeresitasA peaceful beach base near Santa Cruz, perfect for recovery days and ocean swimming after the race.Recovery and Tenerife ExplorationRelax and Discover Post-RaceAfter Santa Cruz Extreme, take time to recover and explore Tenerife's diverse attractions.Playa de las TeresitasRelax on this golden-sand beach near Santa Cruz, perfect for recovery with gentle swimming and nearby seafood.La LagunaStroll through historic streets and enjoy the city's cooler atmosphere and local cafés.Anaga ViewpointsExplore Anaga by car and visit viewpoints like Mirador de Jardina for exceptional scenery.Teide National ParkExperience Mount Teide's volcanic landscape post-race, ensuring your legs are rested for the adventure.Frequently Asked QuestionsThe Things People Always Want to KnowWhen is Santa Cruz Extreme 2026?Santa Cruz Extreme takes place on Saturday, 17 October 2026.Where does Santa Cruz Extreme start?The event starts from Plaza de España in Santa Cruz de Tenerife at 8:00 a.m.What distances are available at Santa Cruz Extreme 2026?The event offers four distances: 42K, 25K, 18K, and 10K.How much does Santa Cruz Extreme cost?The 2026 registration fees are €50 for 42K, €40 for 25K, €35 for 18K, and €30 for 10K.What is the Santa Cruz Extreme 25K elevation gain?The 25K route includes approximately 1,460 metres of positive elevation gain.Is Santa Cruz Extreme suitable for beginners?The 10K may suit trail-running beginners with good fitness. The 18K, 25K, and 42K require progressively greater experience with mountain terrain, climbing, and technical descents.When does Santa Cruz Extreme registration close?Registration closes on Wednesday, 14 October 2026 at 4:00 p.m. Canary Islands time.Verified Information at a GlanceEvent Name: Santa Cruz Extreme 2026Event Category: Trail running, mountain racing, and skyrunningConfirmed Date: Saturday, 17 October 2026Start Time: 8:00 a.m.Start Location: Plaza de España, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Canary Islands, SpainMain Terrain: Anaga Rural Park mountain trails, laurel forest, ravines, and technical pathsEdition: 12th editionRace Distances: Anaga XTRM 42K, 25K, 18K, and 10K42K Entry Fee: €5025K Entry Fee: €4018K Entry Fee: €3510K Entry Fee: €3025K Elevation Gain: Approximately 1,460 m D+18K Elevation Gain: Approximately 1,135 m D+10K Elevation Gain: Approximately 361 m D+Registration Deadline: Wednesday, 14 October 2026 at 4:00 p.m. Canary Islands timeOrganiser: Gesport CanariasBest For: Trail runners, mountain athletes, active travellers, hikers moving into running, and Tenerife nature lovers