Ultra Trail du MontBlanc: Everything you need to know

Every year, Chamonix becomes a centre of strength, endurance, courage and festivities for a week as the Ultra Trail du Mont-Blanc (UTMB) commences in this world-renowned ski resort. This year too, the high spirits of UTMB runners and spectators will gather in Chamonix from 26 August to 1 September 2024 for this ultimate racing event on Earth.  

So, read on and find out everything you need to know about the Ultra Trail du Mont-Blanc (UTMB)! 

What is the Ultra Trail du Mont-Blanc? 

The event is part of the UTMB World Series, the world’s ultimate trail-running circuit that organises running events for both pros and amateurs in the most incredible places on earth. 

The event includes 7 endurance races, ranging from from 53km (the OCC) to 300km (the PTL), with 2 races for youngsters and the volunteer/local community.  But the most famous and challenging trail is the event homonym: the UTMB race, which is one of the toughest on-foot races in the world, with UTMB participants covering the cross-country Tour Du Mont Blanc route through unpredictable weather and intense fatigue.

Different trails of the challenging Tour du Mont Blanc route

Around 10,000 people participate in the Ultra-Trail du Mont Blanc, of which about 2300 run the main UTMB race. The UTMB runners have a maximum of 46h30 to complete the race, which is up to 171 kilometers (around 106 miles) on trails with elevation gains of more than 10,000 metres (c.33,000ft)! However, the fastest have completed it in less than 21h! The drop-out rate is also insane and can be around 40%, especially in years when the weather conditions are not ideal. 

What to do to take part at the Ultra Trail du Mont Blanc? 

Not everyone can take part in this tough event week. In order to qualify you need to complete a certain number of challenging ‘qualifying races’ (also known as ‘running stones’) to accumulate sufficient points and experience before being able to apply for a place via UTMB’s lottery system. A runner must have accumulated 10 “points” by running qualifying races during a set timeframe. UTMB’s organizers update their website each year to reflect how many stones you need to enter each race. 

How busy is Chamonix in August at the time of UTMB? 

Everyone, from spectators to elite trail racers, flocks to vibrant Chamonix to witness this breathtaking spectacle of human perseverance and strength. On average, some 50,000 spectators come down to Chamonix and participate in all the activities of the villages of Pays du Mont-Blanc–meaning the atmosphere is lively and party-like for real!

Enjoy a beer or a warm drink in one of the many ski bars in Chamonix 

Now that we know why is UTMB so prestigious and famous, let’s find out everything there is to do during one of the most exciting Chamonix event!  

Since the UTMB is a six-day-long event in Chamonix, there is a constant atmosphere of loud cheers, anticipation and encouragement as runners keep coming through the finish line. So, even if you are not a runner, you can still get swept up by pure emotions, watching the race reaching its finale and runners crossing the UTMB arc in Chamonix. As for participants, the event is a great avenue to meet the best international and elite runners.

With multiple race-related events like live meet and greets, podcasts, and product expos going on throughout this spectacular event, the onlookers of UTMB are in for a truly one-of-its-kind experience. The main square in Chamonix (Place du Triangle de l'Amitié) is the starting point of the race and the best place to enjoy UTMB’s energy-filled ambience, as well as to get a good glimpse of the first-line UTMB runners! You can also enjoy the celebratory mood and the iconic roars of the onlookers in the nearby host villages along with drinks, delicious Haute-Savoie cuisine and live performances.

The delicious raclette, a must try when in Chamonix 

Beyond UTMB...  

How is Chamonix in August? 

UTMB takes place when summer slowly recedes to bring in autumn, making the weather ideal to visit Chamonix and the nearby host villages, like Les Houches, Saint-Gervais-Les-Bains, Megève, and Le Tour.  Chamonix is also one of the best alpine destinations to cool off in the last days of summer. And if you want to enjoy experiences apart from the UTMB events, then don’t miss out on the Lac Blanc hike!

The glassy Lac Blanc, the perfect spot for a picturesque hike 

So, are you ready to be a part of this iconic race and enjoy the exciting week of UTMB in Chamonix? From cosy studios to luxury chalets, book your stay in any of our holiday homes.