Huai Ka Cross-country Trail

Distance: 13 kilometers

Elevation: 287m

Difficulty: Easy

What to expect on this trail?

This cross-country trail combines scenic views at Huai Ka reservoir with amazing views from Wat Doi Cham Chaeng Temple. The route ranges from fast single-tracks to dirt roads with about 2 kilometers of road at the end. A great trail in a lesser-known area of Chiang Mai that is definitely worth a try.

Check out the video:

Get the .gpx

Huai Ka Cross-country Trail in detail

This cross-country route starts at the Huai Ka Reservoir in Doi Saket district. It is a bit of a drive outside the city, but the route is very much worth it. There is plenty of parking space, and there are very basic toilets (I would say emergency only). Other than that there are no facilities, so make sure you bring everything you may need on your run.

The trail starts at the Eastern side of the dam with a nice single-track section that skirts around the reservoir. This first section is a really nice start, as it basically about 4 kilometers of non-stop single track. After you complete the loop around the lake you will need to start climbing a bit more as you follow a wider trail and a firebreak up to the road to Wat Doi Chom Chaeng. Definitely take the time to visit this hidden temple as there is a nice viewing platform that offers amazing views over the valley and surrounding mountains.

You will descend along the road for about 1 kilometer from the temple until you can head back onto the trails by turning left. The trail will take you back towards the reservoir, and you could actually cut the route short here if you would like. If you want to complete the loop, you will continue south of the reservoir along more trails and into the forest. The final stretch will be along the road which will take you through a village and along the road you took to reach the Huai Ka Reservoir.

Tips for this trail

Make sure to download the .gpx trail and take a navigation device. Because the trails around this area are not mapped, you may easily get lost. Having a reference route really helps!
The route is accessible to all levels of runners and the trails are not particularly difficult. There is also a fair amount of road running, so it is a very accessible route for all levels.
You can cut the route short on a number of points, making this a good option even if 13 kilometers is more than what you are looking for.
For a post-run coffee or snack, there are not that many options out there. We stopped at Village Green Cafe & Retreat which has all you can wish for. Good coffee, a green atmosphere and very friendly staff, what more do you want?
To be transparent, we didn’t find this route by ourselves. It was the stage of Jungle Rush 5, a trail event that was organized here. Check out Hurry Up Sport Thailand if you want to stay updated about the events they organize in Chiang Mai.

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