The Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc

Chamonix, world capital of trail running at the end of August

Every autumn, the Toques en Chablais event in Thonon-les-Bains celebrates the culinary arts and local produce. Star chefs, local producers and food enthusiasts come together to share authentic flavours, gourmet demonstrations and convivial moments in the heart of the Chablais region.

A valley that beats to the rhythm of strides

The trails, still fragrant with blueberries and spruces, become the backdrop to an extraordinary epic, where every step is a tribute to the mountains. In the streets, you can hear every language: Spanish, Japanese, English, Italian… a sign that the UTMB, the Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc, has become much more than just a race, it’s a global event. Spectator bells tinkle in the distance, colourful flags flutter from balconies, and the city’s heart beats in unison with that of the runners. The eyes sparkle as much as the surrounding mountains: here, effort and emotion rise to the top, and everyone, whether athlete or spectator, becomes a player in this great festival of trail running.

A human adventure above all

The UTMB is not just a race. It’s a meeting place for dreams, for surpassing oneself and for fraternity. More than 10,000 runners from the four corners of the globe come together with a common goal: to cross the finish line at the foot of Mont Blanc, after conquering passes, valleys and icy nights.
Behind each bib is a story: a bet between friends, personal revenge, or the simple desire to prove that the impossible is within reach.

Seven races, one spirit

From 25 to 31 August 2025, Chamonix will live to the rhythm of seven events, all linked by the same passion for trail running:

PTL – 300 km of autonomous adventure and 25,000 m of D+.
TDS – 148 km and 9,300 m D+ through the wild trails of the Beaufortain region
MCC – 40 km accessible to enthusiasts, perfect for getting into the spirit of the race
OCC – 57 km from Orsières, ideal for a taste of the magic of the massif
CCC – 101 km, from Courmayeur to Chamonix, crossing the Grand Col Ferret
ETC – 15 km of explosive fun and discovery
UTMB – the ultimate race: 174 km and almost 10,000 m of ascent, around Mont-Blanc, in France, Italy and Switzerland.

Between summits and solidarity

In the Alpine night, a bright thread of headlamps silhouettes the trails, while in the distance, the majestic silence of a pass at 2,500 m is disturbed only by the steady breathing of runners. Dawn sets the glaciers ablaze, the villages come alive with cheers, and every step reveals the raw beauty of the Alps: the Col de la Seigne, the Grand Col Ferret, the descent to Vallorcine… But beyond the landscapes, it’s the spirit of solidarity that leaves its mark: a gesture, a smile, a hot soup offered by a volunteer, and the ovation of the public at the finish, day or night.

Inspiring stories

In 2024, an amateur runner, Vincent Bouillard, beat all the odds by winning the UTMB. His determination, ingenuity (an improvised water bag made from a plastic bag!) and perfect race management left a lasting impression.
In the women’s category, Katie Schide broke the women’s record, proving once again that this race is as much about exploits as it is about human stories.

Experience the UTMB, even without a race number

The UTMB is not just for runners. It’s an unforgettable week for the public too, whether you’re at the start, where music, flags and tears create an electric atmosphere; standing in a high-altitude village to applaud the runners; or thrilling to the last finisher at the finish line.
The whole town becomes a festival: stands, conferences, films, children’s activities… An event to enjoy with family and friends.

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT UTMB

Practical info Everything you need to know to enjoy the UTMB

Dates

from 25 to 31 August 2025

Location

Chamonix and trails in the Mont Blanc massif (France, Italy, Switzerland)

Public access

Free of charge in the passing zones and at the finish line