Every late summer, Chamonix becomes the world capital of trail running. Thousands of runners, tens of thousands of spectators, and a unique atmosphere: The Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc (UTMB) is much more than a race… it’s a legend. The 2026 edition once again promises an extraordinary spectacle in the heart of the Alps.
What is the Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc?
The Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc is considered one of the most prestigious races in the world. Each year, more than 10,000 runners participate in the various events of the festival, which serve as the finals of the UTMB World Series.
The main event, the UTMB, is an extreme challenge:
- about 174 km
- nearly 10,000 m of positive elevation gain
- a course crossing France, Italy, and Switzerland
- a maximum time of about 46 hours
It is as much a human adventure as a sporting one, where endurance, strategy, and mental strength make all the difference.
In 2026, the UTMB takes a new step with a fair setup tailored to each route. One single goal: to minimize individual car trips to reduce pollution in the valleys and ease congestion on the roads.
Results of the latest editions
The level of competition keeps rising, with the best trail runners in the world at the start.
2025 Edition
- 🥇 Men: Tom Evans
- 🥇 Women: Ruth Croft
This edition was marked by difficult weather conditions and an exceptional level.
Recent trends
- international domination (Europe, United States, Oceania)
- ever faster performances
- massive participation with a strong foreign presence
The UTMB is today the absolute reference for long-distance trail running.
UTMB 2026 program
The 2026 edition will take place from Monday, August 24 to Sunday, August 30, 2026 in Chamonix.
The main races
Several formats are offered:
- UTMB (174 km) – start on August 28, 2026, at 5:45 PM
- CCC (about 100 km)
- OCC (57 km) – start on August 27, 2026, from Orsières
- TDS (145 km)
- PTL (300 km, unmarked)
- MCC, ETC, YCC (more accessible formats)
The event spans the entire week with:
- race starts
- entertainment in downtown
- exhibitions and vendors
- award ceremonies
Practical information for attending or participating
Registrations
Participating in the UTMB is a challenge in itself:
- lottery system (draw)
- requirement to accumulate Running Stones (qualifications)
- registrations open early January 2026
Access
- 🚗 car (heavy traffic during UTMB period)
- 🚆 train to Chamonix
- ✈️ nearby Geneva airport
Best spots to watch the race
- center of Chamonix (start and finish)
- iconic mountain passes (Col de la Forclaz, Grand Col Ferret)
- key refreshment points (Courmayeur, Champex-Lac)
Where to stay for UTMB 2026?
The event attracts a huge crowd, so it is crucial to anticipate accommodation needs in the valley.
In Chamonix
- hotels and residences (full very early)
- unique atmosphere at the heart of the event
Chamonix valley and surroundings
- Les Houches
- Argentière
- Saint-Gervais-les-Bains
Alternatives
- Airbnb rentals
- campsites
- accommodations on the Swiss or Italian side
💡 Tip: book 6 to 12 months in advance to get the best prices.
Why attend the UTMB?
- a unique and international atmosphere
- some of the most beautiful landscapes in the Alps
- an immersion in the world of trail running
- strong emotions, day and night
The UTMB is not just a race: it’s an experience.
UTMB 2026, the sports event of the year in Chamonix
The Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc 2026 is already shaping up to be one of the major sporting events of the year in Haute-Savoie. Between sporting feats, festive atmosphere, and spectacular scenery, the event attracts a passionate community from around the world every year.
Whether you are a runner, spectator, or simply curious, one thing is certain: once experienced, the UTMB is never forgotten.
Photo credits: UTMB
