The River by The Traka
Key facts
- Date:
- 6 sep 2026
- Type:
- Ultra / Bikepacking
- Bouillon · Provincia de Luxemburgo, Valonia · Belgium
- Distances:
- 70/120/160/220 km
- Elevation:
- 2.200 m
- Series:
- Gravel Earth Series
About
Bouillon, guarded by its medieval castle above the Semois river, is the gateway to one of Belgium's most scenic gravel events. The River by The Traka follows the winding riverbanks and forested ridges of the Wallonian Ardennes through four distance options of 70, 120, 160 and 220 km, with the headline route covering 160 km and around 2,200 metres of elevation. Part of the Gravel Earth Series, this September event blends bikepacking spirit with structured racing. For ultra-endurance riders preparing with Push Rider, the 220 km format is a genuine pacing challenge where race nutrition, sustainable output management and decision-making under fatigue matter as much as raw aerobic capacity. The Push Training 360 plan builds sport psychology and phased nutrition alongside watts, with weekly coach reviews ensuring that pacing strategy and mental resilience are race-ready before the Semois start line.
Frequently asked questions
When and where does The River by The Traka 2026 take place?
On 6 September 2026 in Bouillon, in the Belgian Luxembourg province (Wallonia), following the Semois river through the Belgian Ardennes.
What distances are available at The River by The Traka?
Four distances: 70 km, 120 km, 160 km and 220 km. The flagship distance is 160 km; the 220 km is an ultra format.
How much elevation gain does the race include?
The recorded elevation gain is 2,200 metres, associated with the reference distance of the event.
Is The River by The Traka part of a series?
Yes. The River by The Traka is part of the Gravel Earth Series.
How to prepare for The River by The Traka with PUSH Training 360?
The PUSH Training 360 12-week program with weekly review and four phases is especially suited to the long distances of this event. Phase 1 aerobic base builds the endurance required for efforts lasting between 4 and 12 hours in the Ardennes. Phase 2 threshold development works on sustainable pace over varied terrain with 2,200 m of accumulated elevation. Phase 3 specificity includes long rides of more than 4 hours simulating the Semois river profile and accumulated fatigue blocks for the 220 km ultra. Phase 4 tapering is slightly extended for ultra distances. Nutrition is organised in three phases: pre-race carbohydrate loading, real-food in-race fuelling strategy for long distances, and post-effort recovery. Pacing requires a very conservative start for the 220 km and a higher hourly caloric intake for distances above 160 km.
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