Trail running's roots trace back to ancient times, evolving from survival necessity to a global sport. Dave Holmes explores this transformation in Athletics Weekly. Early footraces in ancient Greece and Native America relied on off-road endurance for communication.

In the 19th century, Britain's fell races marked the shift from necessity to sport. The Ben Nevis Race in 1895 set a benchmark. Parallel traditions emerged in the US and Europe, with races like the Dipsea Race and Course du Vignemale. Read more trail coverage.

The mid-20th century saw iconic mountain marathons and ultras. The Pikes Peak Marathon, founded in 1956, was the first to allow women. The Tevis Cup and Western States Run pioneered ultra-marathoning in the 1970s. Related: Lost Soul Ultra: Alberta's Hidden Gem for Ultrarunners.

This original Runner World brief is based on reporting from Athletics Weekly. Visit the source for its complete reporting, context and any later corrections.