Committee Changes Route for Kaeng Krachan Trail Run
Authorities have ordered a route change for the Wild Race Kaeng Krachan Trail run after concerns that the original path through the Ban Krang‑Pa Neung Tung corridor would disturb wildlife in the World Heritage forest. The committee approved six alternative routes and will finalize the choice before the November 1 event. Organizers say the adjustment aims to protect the park’s fragile ecosystem while still allowing the race to proceed.
The meeting, held on October 19, 2026, brought together organizers of the Wild Race Kaeng Krachan Trail to reconsider the original Ban Krang‑Pa Neung Tung route, which spans 33 km, after concerns were raised about its impact on wildlife and the environment. The committee agreed to drop that route and will select a new one from six proposals: 1) Sam Roi Yot‑Ban Krang (largely opposed); 2) Maruey‑Pong Luek; 3) Park headquarters‑Sam Yot (mostly supported); 4) Park headquarters‑Yang Chamb reservoir (mostly supported); 5) Phubon‑Khao Dok Mai (mostly supported); 6) Sam Yot‑Pa Daeng. The event had originally been set for November 1 using the Ban Krang‑Huay Komkrit route, later changed to Ban Krang‑Pa Neung Tung, but opposition persisted. Seub Nakhasathien Foundation chairman Phanuadet Khoemali thanked the association and organizers for heeding academic concerns, warning that any activity risking the site’s outstanding universal value could lead to legal action. Scholars and park managers agreed that the Ban Krang‑Pa Neung Tung corridor is too fragile for a trail run, urging careful consideration given the few remaining undisturbed forest areas in Thailand.
