Kruke’s Ultra-Trail Challenge (KUTC)

Kruke’s Ultra-Trail Challenge is a small self-supported ultra-trail race in Stjørdal, Norway, held in October with repeat climbs to the tower on Solemsvåttan. The series provides loop-based distances from approximately 26.8 km to 167.7 km. The four-loop race has a UTMB Index listing with about 1,500 meters of climbing. It is not a polished big-city race; the organizers from Hell Ultraløperklubb follow the motto “KISS and run,” aiming to keep things simple and informal. The course is a 6.7056 km out-and-back loop starting at Jamthaugvegen 37, ascending to the tower, then returning the same way. Each loop gains about 368.7 meters. Thus, 24 loops total 100 miles and 8,848 meters of ascent, equivalent to Everest’s height. Runners must provide their own support, aside from base camp, where water, shelter, and a toilet are available. The field can be small; one recent four-loop edition saw only 11 finishers.