The Mammutmarsch is an endurance hiking event designed to push participants to their physical and mental limits. It’s not a race in the traditional sense but rather a personal challenge – the goal is simply to complete the course within the set time. The concept originated in Germany and has since grown into a movement that attracts thousands of outdoor enthusiasts each year. Participants walk through urban areas, forests, and countryside, often experiencing dramatic changes in terrain and weather along the way.
The event is typically organised with impressive precision. Registration is handled online, and participants receive detailed route information, checkpoints, and support options before setting off. On the day itself, volunteers provide water, food, and encouragement at several stations along the way, while GPS tracking ensures that everyone stays on course and within safety guidelines. The atmosphere is both communal and competitive – people often walk in small groups, encouraging each other when fatigue begins to set in late into the night.
Mammutmarsch events usually offer several distance options, catering to different levels of fitness and ambition. The classic format covers 100 kilometres, often to be completed within 24 hours, but there are shorter routes of 30, 42 or 55 kilometres for those seeking a less extreme challenge. Some routes are circular, while others follow linear trails connecting scenic regions or iconic landmarks. Whatever the distance, the emphasis remains on endurance, willpower, and experiencing the landscape in a deeply personal way.
In recent years, other organisers have adopted similar concepts under different names. Megamarsch is one of the better-known alternatives, offering comparable long-distance hikes in various cities across Germany and neighbouring countries. Additionally, many local clubs and regional organisers have developed their own ‘Marsch’ events, which range from modest day hikes to gruelling overnight treks. Together, they form part of a growing movement that celebrates perseverance, exploration, and the simple joy of putting one foot steadily in front of the other.
Three times this year
I decided to take the challenge three times this year at Leipzig (Komoot), Hamburg and Nürnberg. Only on the 30 km distance as a preparation to climb up the Brocken mountain later this year – but maybe I go for something more challenging in 2027.
Mammutmarsch
Leipzig, Hamburg, Nürnberg
Germany
https://mammutmarsch.de