METURUN 2026
Ankara has a wilder side than its grand boulevards suggest. On October 31, 2026, runners will discover it at METURUN, a trail running event that will take athletes from the heart of Middle East Technical University (METU) into the forests and hills surrounding Eymir Lake. Held as part of the university's 70th anniversary celebrations, the event will combine challenging trails, autumn scenery, and the unmistakable energy of campus life.
All four distances will begin at the university's Devrim Stadium, but each will offer a different kind of experience. The 70K Eymir Trail, the event's longest and toughest challenge, will test experienced runners with steep climbs, technical descents, and changing terrain. With approximately 1,956 meters of total elevation gain, it will demand endurance, concentration, and careful pacing. The 30K Yalıncak Trail will bring its own demanding mix of forest paths, climbs, and technical sections, while the 15K Devrim Trail will offer a shorter introduction to the region's rugged landscape.
The 5K Republic Run will bring a different spirit to the day. Open to the wider community, this traditional noncompetitive run will welcome students, university members, families, and running enthusiasts who simply want to share the experience.
What makes METURUN especially appealing is its setting. Eymir Lake, surrounded by wooded hills and winding trails, will reveal a side of Ankara rarely associated with Türkiye's capital. Autumn will bring a quieter atmosphere to the landscape, with forest paths, open views, and the changing colors of the season creating a memorable backdrop for the race.
For visitors, this will be a chance to experience Ankara beyond its museums, monuments, and busy avenues. The university's distinctive campus atmosphere, nearby natural landscapes, local cafes, and relaxed city evenings will add another dimension to the weekend. And the experience won't belong only to the runners. For supporters and visitors, METURUN will offer something just as memorable: a day of forest air, lakeside scenery, campus energy, and the discovery of Ankara's unexpectedly adventurous side.