5km & 10km
Crocodile Trail
20.5km
+1200m
RACE DESCRIPTION
A highly technical and demanding mountain running race along rocky trails with constant ascents and descents — suitable only for experienced and well-trained athletes. The route covers 20.5 km with 1,200 meters of elevation gain and loss. This is a point-to-point race starting from Sougia and finishing in Paleochora.
The name “Crocodile Trail” refers both to a rocky cape east of Paleochora that resembles a giant stone crocodile swimming in the sea, and metaphorically to the race profile itself — which features four sharp elevation peaks, like the creature’s teeth. The rocky terrain is also filled with jagged stones, reinforcing the “crocodile teeth” metaphor.
The course runs through Southwest Crete, following the axis: Sougia – Ancient Lissos – Lichnou Lakkos – Ammoutsaki Beach – Gialiskari Beach (from here it follows the international E4 trail to Paleochora) – Anydroi Gorge – Prophet Elias (Anydroi) – Papouri – Keratides – Mylos – Vigles – Paleochora.
You can view and download the route here:
https://www.komoot.com/tour/1109302585
Race Amenities
- Pasta Party the evening before the race: Saturday, March 29, 2025
- Electronic timing system
- Athlete transportation from Paleochora to Sougia on race day
- Aid stations with food and hydration during the race
- Post-race meal
- Secure personal item storage at the finish line
- Finisher’s medal: a replica of an Ancient Lissos coin
- Technical apparel or accessory
Feeding Stations
The organizers will provide food and hydration support for the athletes at the following four (4) intermediate points along the main route:- Lichnou Lakkos (5.0 km)
- Gialiskari (10.0 km)
- Anydroi (12.7 km)
- Keratides (16.0 km)
At these points, the following will be offered: water, pasteli (sesame bar), concentrated orange juice (BIOXYM type), Coca-Cola, dried fruits, nuts, chips, cookies (sweet and savory), and salt.
Categories - Awards
The categories that will be contested are the following:- Overall Top 3 Men & Women
- Men: 18–44, 45–54, 55+
- Women: 18–44, 45–54, 55+
All participants will receive a finisher’s medal and a gift. The awards ceremony will take place at the finish line, on the eastern beach of Paleochora (Skala), on Sunday, March 30, 2025, at 13:00 (1:00 PM).
Accommodation
For lodging options, visit the Paleochora Association of Rooms & Apartments website: www.paleochora-rooms.gr/?lang=enTransportation
The organizers will provide transportation for athletes from Paleochora to Sougia on the morning of the race.Photos from Previous Years
