From Monday, August 24 to Sunday, August 30, 2026, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc will once again become the world capital of trail running on the occasion of the 23rd edition of the HOKA UTMB Mont-Blanc. For one week, more than 10,000 runners from all corners of the world will gather at the foot of Mont-Blanc to participate in one of the eight races in the program, while tens of thousands of spectators are expected in the streets of the resort.
The largest worldwide trail running event
Created in 2003, the Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc has become the absolute reference for long-distance trail running. Each year, the event brings together the world’s elite in the discipline as well as thousands of amateur runners who have qualified after a long selection process.
Since 2023, Chamonix has also been hosting the finals of the UTMB World Series, making this week the highlight of the international trail running season. The finals of the 50K, 100K, and 100 Miles categories will once again take place on the legendary courses of the Mont-Blanc massif.
Eight races for all profiles
Throughout the week, several events will allow a wide range of profiles to start:
- PTL®, the extreme adventure of nearly 300 km in complete autonomy;
- TDS®, one of the most technical races in the program (145 km);
- MCC, reserved mainly for volunteers and local participants;
- ETC®, a more accessible format;
- OCC (60 km), the world final of the 50K category;
- CCC® (101 km), the world final of the 100K category;
- UTMB®, the flagship race of 174 km and 9,900 meters of positive elevation gain;
- YCC, intended for young trail runners.
The UTMB, an extraordinary adventure around Mont-Blanc
The most anticipated moment of the week, the UTMB will start on Friday, August 28, 2026, at 5:45 p.m. from the center of Chamonix. Participants will have to cover 174 kilometers and nearly 10,000 meters of positive elevation gain, crossing successively France, Italy, and Switzerland before returning to cross the finish line in Chamonix.
Considered one of the most demanding races in the world, this event represents the ultimate dream for many trail runners.
Chamonix will live to the rhythm of trail running for a week
Beyond the competitions, the UTMB transforms the entire Chamonix valley into a true trail running festival.
The Ultra-Trail Village, located in the heart of the town, will welcome the biggest brands from the outdoor world, conferences, meetings with athletes, activities, autograph sessions, as well as many new products presented by the equipment manufacturers.
The awards ceremonies, the finishes of the various races, and live broadcasts will create a unique atmosphere in the streets of Chamonix throughout the week.
An event that shines throughout the valley
Each edition generates exceptional attendance in accommodations, restaurants, and shops in the Chamonix valley. Spectators, companions, and mountain enthusiasts come to experience the very special atmosphere of the UTMB, which has become over the years an unmissable event on the global sports calendar.
The organization also continues its commitment to a more responsible event, notably through the development of public transport and low environmental impact mobility solutions.
Practical information
- Event: HOKA UTMB Mont-Blanc 2026
- Dates: from Monday, August 24 to Sunday, August 30, 2026
- Location: Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
- Flagship race: UTMB® – Friday, August 28 at 5:45 p.m.
- Distance: 174 km
- Positive elevation gain: 9,900 m
- Number of races: 8
- Access: free activities in the heart of Chamonix throughout the week.
For seven days, Chamonix will vibrate to the rhythm of arrivals, departures, and sporting achievements, once again confirming its status as the world capital of trail running.
Photo source: https://montblanc.utmb.world/fr
