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 over the world will gather at the foot of Mont-Blanc to take part in one of the eight races on the program, while tens of thousands of spectators are expected in the streets of the resort.
The world’s largest trail running event
Created in 2003, the Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc has become the absolute reference in long-distance trail running. Every year, the event brings together the world elite of the discipline as well as thousands of amateur runners who have qualified after a long selection process.
Since 2023, Chamonix has also hosted the finals of the UTMB World Series, making this week the highlight of the international trail running season. The finals for the 50K, 100K, and 100 Miles categories will once again take place on the legendary routes of the Mont-Blanc massif.
Eight races for all profiles
Throughout the week, several events will allow a wide variety of profiles to take the start:
- PTL®, the extreme adventure of nearly 300 km in total autonomy;
- TDS®, one of the most technical races on 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 with 9,900 meters of positive elevation gain;
- YCC, aimed at young trail runners.
The UTMB, an extraordinary adventure around Mont-Blanc
The most eagerly awaited moment of the week, the UTMB will start on Friday, August 28, 2026 at 5:45 PM from the center of Chamonix. Participants will have to cover 174 kilometers and nearly 10,000 meters of positive elevation gain, crossing France, Italy, and Switzerland successively before returning to cross the finish line in Chamonix.
Considered one of the most demanding races in the world, this event is 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 host the biggest brands in the outdoor universe, conferences, meetings with athletes, activities, autograph sessions as well as many new products presented by 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 the accommodations, restaurants, and shops throughout 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 sporting calendar.
The organization also maintains 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
- Main race: UTMB® – Friday, August 28 at 5:45 PM
- 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 feats, once again confirming its status as the world capital of trail running.
Photo source: https://montblanc.utmb.world/fr
