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Travel & Experiences

7 extreme marathons around the world

The Leadville Trail 100-mile run in the Colorado Rockies is an icon on the ultra-marathon circuit, a run so epic that founder Ken Chlouber, a 14-time finisher, started a separate marathon for those who wanted the challenge without the distance. The latter race is an out-and-back "run" up to Mosquito Pass at 13,185 feet, but you must expect to walk because the rocks up there are tricky. "If you are going to have a grueling, tough, leg-busting, lung-busting race, it's this one," says Chlouber, 79. Race registration costs $115, a half-marathon the same day is $100.

The Leadville Trail 100-mile run in the Colorado Rockies is an icon on the ultra-marathon circuit, a run so epic that founder Ken Chlouber, a 14-time finisher, started a separate marathon for those who wanted the challenge without the distance. The latter race is an out-and-back “run” up to Mosquito Pass at 13,185 feet, but you must expect to walk because the rocks up there are tricky. “If you are going to have a grueling, tough, leg-busting, lung-busting race, it’s this one,” says Chlouber, 79. Race registration costs $115, a half-marathon the same day is $100.

  (Kent Nishimura / Denver Post via Getty Images)

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For runners, one of the most storied-and feared-stretches is Heartbreak Hill, 20 miles into the Boston Marathon, which this year takes place Monday, April 16. If that challenge seems a bit low-key, here’s a roundup of insane marathons around the world, from Kilimanjaro to the Colorado Rockies. Read the full story.

Tusk's Safaricom Marathon in Kenya, June 30

This running safari in Kenya has drawn elite runners, including Eliud Kipchoge, to the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, about a 45-minute flight or four-hour drive north of Nairobi. Corporate teams are welcome and have included BlackRock Inc. and Investec. The entry fee for full or half is $285 pounds, plus a fundraising requirement of $2,100. Exceptional Travel offers a three-day package that includes a domestic flight from Nairobi, airport taxes, some meals, and hotel and safari tent accommodations for $2,550 for two people.

  (Phil Moore / AFP / Getty Images)

Kilimanjaro Trail Marathon in Tanzania, Aug. 13

The course starts with a descent before climbing 16 miles to the highest point in Africa, then sharply plunges from the summit on a course that feels as if you’re sledding through volcanic gravel on your feet. August is one of the best times to go; even then, the weather can swing wildly from T-shirt weather in blazing sun to hail and snow. Temperatures drop with the sun. Altitude sickness is a main concern, so acclimating ahead of time is highly recommended. There is no time limit, and rest stations will be available every three to four miles. Five-day packages from Erik’s Adventures start at $2,795.

  (James Phillips / Getty Images / RooM RF)

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