PKO Three Mounds Run 2026

Time to start in an absolute legend of the Polish running calendar 💪! The PKO Three Mounds Run is a unique event with the status of the International Championships of Kraków in Mountain Running. It is a one-of-a-kind Anglo-Saxon run whose course runs entirely within the administrative boundaries of a major metropolis, yet is characterized by a demanding, mountain profile. Participants face a distance of about 13 kilometers ⏱️ with total elevation gain reaching several hundred meters. Runners start at Krakus Mound, pass Kościuszko Mound, and after a fierce battle on forest and rocky paths, check in at the finish line at the foot of the highest of them – Piłsudski Mound. The varied surface (asphalt, gravel, forest tracks) and steep climbs guarantee a powerful dose of sporting excitement and unforgettable views of the panorama of the Royal City.

This autumn classic is not only a sporting test, but also a brilliant opportunity to spend a weekend in one of Europe’s most beautiful cities. After picking up a unique medal and recovering your strength, be sure to set off to conquer Kraków 🥇:

Feel the atmosphere of the city’s heart at the Main Market Square – after coming down from the green hills of Wolski Forest, move straight into the vibrant heart of Poland’s former capital. The Cloth Hall, St. Mary’s Basilica and atmospheric café gardens are the perfect backdrop for celebrating a successful start 🏰.

Relax on the Kraków Planty – this charming green ring surrounding the Old Town offers shaded avenues and plenty of benches, ideal for a calm recovery walk for legs tired from the climbs 🌳.

Take a walk along the Vistula Boulevards – a stroll by the Vistula River under Wawel has an extraordinary magic to it, especially in the golden autumn atmosphere that usually accompanies this iconic run 🌊.

Dig into a well-earned maczanka krakowska or traditional zapiekanki – after burning lots of calories on the demanding hills, the traditional slow-roasted maczanka Kraków-style in Kazimierz or the iconic zapiekanka from Plac Nowy will taste like the most beautiful culinary world championship 🍽️.

Kraków is a metropolis well connected with the whole world. If after successfully conquering the three mounds you want to extend your stay and pop out of the city for a while, in less than an hour by train or car you can reach the historic Wieliczka Salt Mine, Tarnów or the charming valleys around Kraków. Get your shoes with good tread ready, train your uphill running, and feel the power of mountain running in royal style 👟!