The Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc, more commonly known as the UTMB, is a trail run held every year in Chamonix Mont-Blanc. Regarded as one of the most challenging races of its kind, it is a must-attend event for trail runners from all over the world.
The UTMB: the gathering of the trail running elite
In the world of trail running, the UTMB is the ultimate competition – the one every trail runner dreams of taking part in one day. Established in 2003, it challenges participants to complete the Tour du Mont-Blanc as quickly as possible. This world-renowned race crosses three countries: France, Italy and Switzerland.
Every year, charity race numbers are available. These are intended for runners wishing to support one of the partner charities with a donation of at least €2,000. Trail runners choosing this option do not need to enter the ballot to take part in the UTMB.
1 event, 8 races
A must-attend event, the UTMB comprises 8 races:
- The UTMB – Category 100M is the most legendary race of the event and in the world. Covering 171 km with 9,963 metres of elevation gain, it starts in Chamonix.
- The CCC – Category 100K: this is the UTMB’s ‘little sister’. It covers 100 km with 6,156 metres of elevation gain, starting in Courmayeur.
- The OCC – 50K category: this is a revised route. 55 km with 3,425 metres of elevation gain. The race starts in Orsières, Switzerland.
- The PTL – The PTL, also known as the Petite Trotte à Léon, allows teams to complete the Grand Tour of Mont Blanc. It covers 300 km with 25,000 metres of elevation gain, starting from Chamonix.
- The TDS – The TDS allows you to enjoy unique landscapes in a friendly atmosphere. It covers 145 km with 9,176 metres of elevation gain, starting in Courmayeur.
- The MCC – This race is reserved for volunteers, locals and partners. It covers 40 km with 2,300 metres of elevation gain, starting in Martigny-Combe, Switzerland.
- The ETC – The ETC is the newest addition to the UTMB. It covers 15 km with 1,300 metres of elevation gain. The race starts in Courmayeur.
- The YCC – The Youth Chamonix Courmayeur is reserved for young people. It covers 15 km with 1,300 metres of elevation gain and starts from Courmayeur.
Accommodation for the UTMB
Whether you’re planning to take part in the UTMB, volunteer or simply watch the race, we’ve put together a selection of tourist accommodation options for you to explore.
Le Refuge des Aiglons
Le Refuge des Aiglons is a 4-star hotel situated at 270 Avenue Courmayeur, a 10-minute walk from the centre of Chamonix. Guests can enjoy a heated outdoor swimming pool. You’ll be able to reach the UTMB start line in no time.
Le Faucigny
At 118 Place de l’Église, you’ll find the Le Faucigny hotel. This charming hotel is within easy reach of the hiking trails. The rooms are accessible by stairs only.
L’Heliopic Hotel & Spa
L’Heliopic Hôtel & Spa is a 4-star hotel situated at 610 Route Blanche, in Chamonix. A 500 m² spa is available to guests. You’ll be right in the centre of the village.
La Folie Douce Hotels Chamonix
The La Folie Douce Hotel is situated right in the heart of Chamonix. The rooms and dormitories offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains, from Mont Blanc to the Aiguilles Rouges. You can enjoy the heated swimming pool even in winter.
Practical information about the event
Before setting off on the UTMB or even registering, there are some practical details you need to be aware of. These races should not be taken lightly and require you to be in very good physical condition.
Essential kit
As we know, the weather can be unpredictable in the mountains. It can be even more so in the Mont Blanc massif, where temperatures can range from over 30°C to as low as -10°C at altitudes of over 2,000 metres. To ensure runners’ safety, specific equipment is compulsory. Your basic kit should include:
- A bag to carry your kit during the race
- A mobile phone with the Liverun app
- A reusable cup with a capacity of at least 15 cl
- At least 1 litre of water in reserve
- 2 working torches, with spare batteries
- A survival blanket
- A whistle
- An elasticated adhesive bandage
- A food supply
- A hooded jacket
- A pair of tight-fitting trousers
- A bandana, Buff or cap
- A mid-layer
- A beanie
- Gloves
- Water-repellent overtrousers
- Proof of identity
Also recommended are Vaseline, a GPS watch, a sewing kit and some cash to cover any unforeseen circumstances. Depending on the weather conditions, trail runners may be asked to carry a heatwave kit or a bad-weather kit.
Safety during the race
During races, participants are responsible for their own safety. It is up to them to assess their own fitness and look after their health. Of course, there is also a place for solidarity in the competition. Please also note that the organisers do everything in their power to ensure the safety of runners and provide them with medical support.
Since 2007, a medical committee has met following the UTMB to review medical operations during the race, and participants are required to download the LiveRun app onto their smartphones. It provides information about their race and enables real-time tracking.
The 2025 edition of the UTMB
The 2025 UTMB will take place from 25 to 31 August, offering a full week of sport and festivities in Chamonix and around Mont Blanc. Eight races will be on the programme, ensuring there is a challenge to suit everyone, whether you’re an amateur or an experienced trail runner. The event village will bring together 140 exhibitors and offer a wide range of activities, talks and meet-ups.
Children won’t be left out, with mini-races organised in several villages across the massif.
Previous editions
The 2024 edition
The 2024 edition of the UTMB took place from 26 to 31 August, bringing together runners from all walks of life thanks to a variety of races suitable for different levels. Alongside the sporting events, the event village attracted thousands of visitors, with 140 exhibitors, entertainment and a festive atmosphere throughout the week.
The 2023 edition
The 20th edition of the Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc took place from 28 August to 3 September 2023, promising a great celebration for this internationally renowned event. For the first time in the history of the UTMB, the UTMB World Series finals took place in Chamonix, alongside the UTMB, the OCC and the CCC, the flagship races.
