Dirtbag dreams: A history of mountain, ultra and trail running

by Carl Morris

The first book to share the untold story of this unique sport, from its origins in the Victorian era to the present day.

Over the past two decades, mountain, ultra and trail running has experienced a massive boom in participation, media attention and corporate consumerism. Once little more than an oddball recreation for mountain athletics romantics, the sport has become a mass activity in ways that were previously unimaginable.

In Dirtbag dreams, Carl Morris offers the first complete account of mountain, ultra and trail running in North America and Britain. Revealing the sport’s eccentric Victorian origins, he traces its development through 200 years of history, travelling from the Sierra Nevada and the English Lake District to the streets of London and New York.

Packed with gripping races and colourful characters, Dirtbag dreams is the essential companion for anyone who wants to understand this unique endurance sport.

386 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 11, 2025

Reviews

[Daig83]

3.5*

[Luce Bourbeau]

Lots of interesting history and reflections on the values and future of the sport, but perhaps a bit dry at times. Don't read if you're not passionate about trail/ultra running.