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A Runner's Guide to the UTMB Race
Everything you need to know about the Ultra-Trail Du Mont-Blanc
By Grace
Last Updated October 15, 2025
• 6 min read
The Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc (UTMB) is more than just a race; it's an iconic journey that captivates the hearts of trail runners worldwide. Nestled amidst the breathtaking peaks of Mont Blanc in Chamonix, France, this ultimate ultramarathon challenges athletes to push their limits across 106 miles (170 km) with 32,940 feet of total elevation gain in rugged terrain spanning three countries. At Running Warehouse, we’ve put together a comprehensive guide exploring the race's history, how to prepare, and essential tips to help seasoned ultrarunners and adventurous novices embark on the unforgettable quest of a lifetime.
What is UTMB?
UTMB, or the Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc, is a legendary ultra-endurance race that takes place in the breathtaking alpine region of Mont-Blanc, encompassing France, Italy, and Switzerland. The event traces its origins back to 2003 when seven hundred runners, led by Michel Poletti and Catherine Poletti, gathered at the starting line in Place du Triangle, a historically significant location in Chamonix, France. This emblematic square, with its view of the majestic Mont Blanc, not only serves as the race's starting and finishing point but also acts as a powerful symbol of unity and friendship among the three countries.
What began as a modest gathering of seven hundred runners has now evolved into a world-renowned event, attracting thousands of participants from all corners of the globe. Over the years, the UTMB has become an emblem of trail running, uniting athletes in their pursuit of conquering nature's most challenging and awe-inspiring terrains. Its history is etched with tales of triumph, perseverance, and an unwavering spirit that continues to inspire trail runners worldwide.
How To Enter UTMB: Race Qualification & Lottery System
Registering for the UTMB is a highly sought-after opportunity that attracts trail runners worldwide. Due to its immense popularity, the race operates on a lottery system to allocate limited spots fairly among the vast number of applicants. The registration process typically opens several months before the event, and interested participants must apply through the UTMB website within a specified timeframe.
Qualification requirements play a crucial role in the registration process. To be eligible for the main UTMB race, runners need to accumulate qualifying points by participating in designated trail races. These points are awarded based on the distance and difficulty of the qualifying races, with longer and more challenging races earning higher points. Aspiring UTMB runners must complete a certain number of qualifying points within a set timeframe to be considered for registration.
The Different UTMB Races
Over the years, the UTMB event has evolved to include multiple races catering to a diverse range of athletes. The main race, the UTMB itself, spans 106 miles (170 kilometers) with an astonishing 32,940 feet (10,040 meters) elevation gain.
Additionally, runners can choose from several challenging races, including the CCC (Courmayeur-Champex-Chamonix), TDS (Sur les Traces des Ducs de Savoie), OCC (Orsières-Champex-Chamonix), and the PTL (La Petite Trotte à Léon), each presenting its own unique set of challenges and rewards.
| Name | Distance | Elevation | Route |
| UTMB: Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blan | 106 miles (170 km) | 32,940 feet (10,040 meters) | Loop around Mont Blanc from Chamonix, France and traversing Italy and Switzerland |
| CCC: Courmayeur-Champex-Chamonix | 63 miles (101 km) | 20,000 feet (6,100 meters) | Point-to-point from Italy to France via Switzerland |
| TDS: Sur les Traces des Ducs de Savoie | 90 miles (145 km) | 30,000 feet (9,100 meters) | Point-to-point from Italy to France |
| OCC: Orsieres-Champex-Chamonix | 34 miles (55 km) | 11,500 feet (3,500 meters) | Point-to-point from Switzerland to France |
| PTL: Petit Trotte a Leon | 186 miles (300 km) | 82,000 feet (25,000 meters) | Different route each year with no waymarkers Team-based run: teams of 2-3 people who are self-supported |
Mandatory Gear Requirements for UTMB
Runners competing in the UTMB must carry a rigorous set of mandatory gear to ensure safety and readiness across drastic and unpredictable alpine conditions. Required items include waterproof jacket and pants with sealed seams, a warm layer (such as a long-sleeve base or fleece), full‐leg coverage (e.g. tights or long pants), and accessories like a hat, neck gaiter or bandana, and insulated waterproof gloves.
Beyond apparel, athletes also must carry critical equipment: two independent lights (headlamps or flashlights) with spare batteries for night segments, a pack (or belt) large enough to hold all required items, at least 1 liter of water plus a cup, and ~800 kcal of nutrition. Safety gear is also mandated; a survival blanket, self-adhesive bandage, emergency whistle, valid ID, and a mobile phone with international roaming must all be on hand.
For a more in-depth in look and gear recommendations, check out our UTMB Mandatory Gear List guide.
Preparation Tips for UTMB
As one of the most challenging and prestigious ultramarathon trail races in the world, the Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc requires careful preparation and disciplined training. To ensure you can handle the extreme conditions and the demanding course, here are the main points to consider when preparing for UTMB:
Build Gradually and Prioritize Recovery
Start your training well in advance, progressively increasing mileage and intensity to help your body adapt to the demands of ultradistance running. Balance your workload with adequate rest and recovery to prevent burnout and injury.
Train for Mileage and Elevation
UTMB is an ultra-distance race with significant elevation gain and loss. Focus on increasing your weekly mileage and incorporating long runs and hill repeats in your training regimen to prepare your legs and cardiovascular system for the race's demands. Find steep hills or inclines to practice ascending and descending efficiently.
Get Comfortable on Trails and in Race Conditions
UTMB takes place almost entirely on mountainous trails, so it’s essential to include plenty of trail running in your training. This helps you get used to uneven terrain, improve balance and stability, and practice managing your energy effectively throughout the race.
The race's evening start time, usually around 6:00 PM or 6:30 PM local time, adds an additional challenge to the already demanding course. Since runners must navigate challenging terrain in the dark, practice running at night with a headlamp to get comfortable with low-light conditions.
Practice Gear Use, Nutrition and Hydration
UTMB’s demanding alpine conditions come with an equally demanding gear list. Don’t wait until race day; train with the same gear you plan to carry, making sure it fits, functions, and feels right for the long haul.
Your training long runs are also the place to test your nutrition and hydration plan. Try out different gels, foods, and fluids to find what keeps your energy steady and your stomach happy on the trail.
Develop Mental Strength and Race Strategy
UTMB is as much a mental challenge as a physical one. Build resilience through visualization, positive self-talk, and learning to push through tough training moments. Study the course map and elevation profile, develop a pacing plan, and determine when to conserve energy or push harder.
Taper Before the Race
Proper rest is equally important as doing the proper training. In the final weeks leading up to UTMB, it's important to taper your training volume to allow your body to recover and reach peak condition for race day.
Conquering the UTMB Race
The Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc stands as a pinnacle of trail running, drawing athletes seeking the ultimate test of strength, endurance, and determination. Its rich history, variety of races, challenging qualification process, meticulous preparation, memorable moments, and strong community involvement all contribute to making the UTMB an iconic and unforgettable experience for runners and spectators alike.
If you're gearing up to take on this incredible challenge, start training early, practice with the course in mind, and test your gear ahead of time to ensure everything is race-ready. Competing in the UTMB is the race of a lifetime, so embrace the journey, soak in the community spirit, and enjoy the breathtaking beauty of this legendary race.
