100 Runs of a Lifetime: The World's Ultimate Races and Trails

by Bart Yasso

Discover the best runs and races around the globe with this beautifully illustrated, expertly curated collection from National Geographic.

Runners of all skill levels—even those going from couch to 5k—will find something unforgettable among these 100 runs and races, including all six of the iconic World Marathon Majors to courses that traverse Hawaii, Iceland, and Italy’s stunning Amalfi Coast.

See you at the starting line! This extraordinary guidebook contains 100 of the best running routes around the globe. With one-of-a-kind experiences for every type of runner, from novices to seasoned marathoners, runners will find the best routes for scenic views, on-course entertainment, and new PRs.

Including tried-and-true favorites, such as the Boston Marathon and a race through the Colorado’s Gardens of the Gods, you’ll also discover a variety of hidden gems and more, including:
The Lewa Safari Marathon, an epic run through a conservation area in Kenya where you may spot the Big Five
The Antarctica Marathon, a challenging, always-changing course at the end of the world
The Bolder Boulder 10K, a feat of Rocky Mountain highs
The Empire State Run-Up, a race to the top of one of the world’s most iconic skyscrapers
The Great Wall Marathon, a unique opportunity to run along a wonder of the world
The Hood to Coast Relay, a Pacific Northwest classic that’s well worth the fatigue
The Mount Blanc Ultra, a challenging course for all ultra runners


And so much more!

Along with everything you need to know about each of these bucket list-worthy tracks runs, you’ll also find expert travel advice for when to go, where to stay, what to eat, and what to do when you’re off the course.

All that’s left to do is lace up your shoes and go!

Genres: Nonfiction, Coffee Table Books

400 pages, Hardcover

Published April 15, 2025

Reviews

[Erin Nielsen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Added some new bucket list races and trails to hit after reading this book. I mostly use the library for my books, but I'm definitely adding this to my book purchase list to reference in the future.

[Evann · Rating 5 out of 5]

So cool! I would definitely love to do some of these runs- and the photography in this book was amazing!🤩

[Lily Luan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm almost inspired enough to sign up for a race.

[Dan · Rating 4 out of 5]

I added some runs to my bucket list from the book so I feel it was successful there. Some good pictures and place/race descriptions

[Catherine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Won a finished, albeit heavily damaged copy of this book in a Goodreads giveaway. It’s so wonderful, I raced through it! (Pun intended.) Love all the beautiful photos; though every page in my book is bent/crushed, each image supports the text and is in keeping with National Geographic’s branding. I also appreciated the pertinent information provided, as not only do readers learn heaps about various marathons, but the cities in which they’re held. The travel tips are especially useful. Overall, I really enjoy how this book promotes travel and new experiences through both text and image; we get a true sense of the races and are simultaneously encouraged to stop and enjoy the places they’re held in.

[Shawn Aebi · Rating 4 out of 5]

A solid collection of races to consider - I have tackled 4-5 listed. Descriptions give you just enough to whet your appetite. Solid photos included, organized well. A great gift for the true marathoner.

[Morgan · Rating 5 out of 5]

****Giveaway win****

Fantastic pictures & information

[Holly Peterson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gorgeous book with some great information!

[Martin Campbell · Rating 5 out of 5]

great writing and pictures, very inspirational!

[Alex · Rating 4 out of 5]

*4.5*

[Megan Clarke · Rating 2 out of 5]

Slightly disappointed at just how USA centric this book was. In the short runs/road races chapter all but 1 race is in the USA (the other 1 is in Canada!) hardly the 'world's' ultimate races 🙃

[Jen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fun to dream, be inspired and add some great locations to travel to- for running or walking. Beautiful photography and a good mix of of city and wilderness trails and races.