Trail runners talk about the Ultra-Trail du Mont Blanc the way climbers talk about Everest—it’s the benchmark, the dream, the ultimate test. For eight days, we’ll explore this iconic trail network, running at our own perfect pace along ancient pathways used by hunters, herdsmen, and traders. We’ll hop between charming Alpine villages across three countries, refuel with local cuisine, and push our limits, all under the watchful gaze of Mont Blanc itself. Whether you’re building toward a race entry or simply want a legendary run without the pressure of a timing chip, you’ll see just why the paths of the UTMB make runners worldwide go weak at the knees—and not just from the elevation gain.
If you've ever wanted to run the legendary UTMB route, this 8-day trail running trip is your chance to experience the iconic Mont Blanc trail in all its glory—minus the race-day pressure. Starting and ending in Chamonix, we’ll tackle some of the world’s most breathtaking alpine terrain, running through France, Switzerland, and Italy. From smooth, runnable stretches to technical climbs, this trip offers the best of both worlds. Each night, we’ll kick back in charming hotels, chalets, and mountain lodges, refueling with hearty breakfasts and dinners before another epic day on the trail. With a pro guide leading the way and luggage transfers keeping things light, all that’s left to do is run, soak up the views, and embrace the magic of the UTMB.
Our trip begins in the world-famous mountain town of Chamonix, France. With its rich history as a mountaineering destination, Chamonix has attracted adventurers for centuries. It is best known for its breathtaking views of glaciers and peaks, dominated by Mont Blanc, the highest mountain in Western Europe at 4,810 m (15,777 ft). Ever since the first ascent of Mont Blanc in 1786, climbers and trail runners have been inspired to take on the challenge of this legendary landscape.
We’ll meet our running guide this evening at approximately 6pm at our hotel in the Chamonix Valley. This is a chance to ask any last-minute questions and get a briefing on the exciting days ahead.
Meals: Dinner
Accommodation: Chalet Hôtel le Prieuré, Chamonix
We start the day running through Chamonix, getting a feel for the town’s vibrant energy. This is the starting point of the Ultra-Trail du Mont Blanc, and we’ll have a chance to imagine what it’s like to take off with thousands of runners on race day. Our trail follows the Arve River to the village of Les Houches before we climb through forested paths to the Voza Pass, offering stunning views of Mont Blanc and the surrounding glaciers.
From here, we descend towards the spa town of St. Gervais-les-Bains, passing traditional chalets and rustic farms. Our route continues through the valley to the village of Les Contamines at 1,170 m (3,837 ft), where we spend the night. Historically, this village was a key crossroads for Roman trade routes connecting Switzerland and Italy.
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Running: 29.9 km (18.7 miles), 7-8 hours
Elevation gain/loss: +1,554 m (+5,097 ft), -1,368 m (-4,487 ft)
Accommodation: Chalet Hôtel La Chemenaz
We begin with a warm-up along a riverside trail before joining an ancient Roman road that once secured trade routes. Passing the stunning Baroque church of Notre Dame de la Gorge, we climb steeply to the refuge at Le Balme. Here, we take a break before tackling the ascent to Col du Bonhomme at 2,439 m (7,999 ft), our first major pass of the trip.
After a short climb to Croix de Bonhomme, we enjoy a well-earned coffee and cake before a long descent through alpine meadows to the remote hamlet of Les Chapieux. Depending on accommodation availability, we may stay in Les Chapieux or transfer off the trail for the night, returning the next day.
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Running: 24 km (15 miles), 7.5-8.5 hours
Elevation gain/loss: +1,725 m (+5,658 ft), -1,070 m (-3,509 ft)
Accommodation: Chalet de Roselend, Beaufort or similar
Waking up in a remote valley that is snowbound in winter, we begin the day with a steady climb to Col de la Seigne, crossing into Italy. The ascent is on a wide, gradual trail that efficiently gains elevation. At the top, breathtaking views open up as we descend into Val Veny, where glaciers sparkle in the morning sun and Mont Blanc looms high above.
We push onward with a steep climb to Mont Favre ridge before descending to Col Checrouit and stopping at Rifugio Maison Vieille, known for its warm Italian hospitality. A final descent leads us to Courmayeur, a charming alpine town where we rest for the night. This is also the meeting point for those joining the CCC Ultra Marathon segment.
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Running: 23 km (14 miles), 6.5-7.5 hours
Elevation gain/loss: +1,120 m (+3,673 ft), -1,680 m (-5,510 ft)
Accommodation: Hotel Edelweiss, Courmayeur or similar
We leave Courmayeur through narrow streets and historic buildings before climbing steeply through larch forests to Rifugio Bertone. Here, we take in breathtaking views of the Mont Blanc range before traversing a stunning balcony trail to the famous Rifugio Bonatti. Dedicated to legendary mountaineer Walter Bonatti, this refuge is a perfect spot to refuel before we continue through flower-filled alpine meadows.
The trail gradually descends to Arnuva before climbing again to Grand Col Ferret, marking the Swiss border. We take in the wide-open views before making our final descent into the peaceful village of La Fouly, nestled at 1,600 m (5,249 ft), where we spend the night.
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Running: 31.6 km (19.7 miles), 8-8.5 hours
Elevation gain/loss: +2,050 m (+6,724 ft), -1,670 m (-5,477 ft)
Accommodation: Hotel Edelweiss, La Fouly or similar
We begin with a gentle run along the valley, surrounded by classic Swiss scenery—wooden chalets, neatly kept gardens, and colorful window boxes. We pass through Praz de Fort, a village known for its historic wooden farmhouses, before starting our main climb of the day to Champex-Lac. The jade-green lake and surrounding mountains make this a picture-perfect lunch spot.
After Champex, we enter dense larch forests, climb through dramatic gorges, and traverse summer pastures home to Swiss fighting cows. Our final descent takes us to Col de la Forclaz at 1,527 m (5,008 ft). Depending on accommodation availability, we may continue for another short descent to Trient for the night.
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Running: 30.9 km (19.3 miles), 6.5-7.5 hours
Elevation gain/loss: +1,310 m (+4,296 ft), -1,385 m (-4,542 ft)
Accommodation: Gîte La Casita, Gietroz or similar
Our final day takes us back into France. We begin with a descent to Trient before climbing towards Vallorcine, once home to bears in the Middle Ages. A steady ascent leads us to Col des Montets before tackling the final climb to Tête aux Vents at 2,127 m (6,976 ft), where we are rewarded with sweeping views of the Mont Blanc massif.
From here, it’s a steep descent past the Flegere cable car station, bringing us back to Chamonix where our journey began. Time to celebrate our incredible achievement, rest the mind and body, and maybe recover with a massage (at an additional cost).
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Running: 30.5 km (19 miles), 7.5-8.5 hours
Elevation gain/loss: +1,750 m (+5,740 ft), -2,215 m (-7,265 ft)
Accommodation: Chalet Hôtel le Prieuré, Chamonix
Our mountain adventure comes to an end after breakfast. We’ll say our goodbyes and depart at our convenience. If you’re staying in Chamonix, feel free to ask your guide for recommendations!
Meals: Breakfast
An amazing holiday that was well organised, with an amazing guide. We stayed in stunning hotels, in stunning locations, and well feed throughout the week. The luggage being transported removed the stress from the week and left me to enjoy the holiday. Tracks and Trails, highly recommend.
There is not one single element I can say I did NOT enjoy. It was an amazing experience. I was expecting to find it difficult and was not sure if my experience was right for it. But it was which made it even more enjoyable!
Included:
Add-ons
Not included:
This Ultra-Trail du Mont Blanc guided adventure requires high fitness levels and mountain trail running experience. You should be comfortable running long distances on a variety of mountain trails and conditions.
On average, you’ll cover 27 km (16.8 mi) per day, with some of the longest days reaching 31.6 km (19.7 mi). Expect to be on the trail for 6.5 to 8.5 hours daily, with up to 2,050 m (6,724 ft) of ascent and 2,215 m (7,265 ft) of descent in a single day.
The trails will be mostly good paths and tracks, but may include narrower paths and steep uphill and downhill sections.
To fully enjoy this experience, you should have prior experience running long distances in mountainous terrain and be prepared for consecutive days of sustained effort.
For more adventures in Chamonix, click here!
Here’s a list of the equipment you need to bring:
Essential equipment
Clothing
You must be able to cover yourself with 3 full layers on your upper body and 2 full layers on your legs.
Comfort & extras
Documentation
Personal First Aid
Additional items
Your luggage will be moved each day by a taxi driver. The maximum weight limit is 15 kg (33lbs) per person. Please note that your luggage will not be collected if it exceeds this limit. You can only take one luggage bag on the trip. Keep in mind that you must be able to carry your luggage upstairs, as not all accommodations have elevators.
If you follow a gluten-free or celiac diet, please bring supplementary snacks.
Group sizes and pricing
An Ultra-Trail du Mont Blanc guided adventure can be arranged for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements.
Min. age requirements
The starting point of your Ultra-Trail du Mont Blanc guided adventure is Chamonix, France. To get there, most people fly into Geneva Airport (GVA).
Once you arrive, there are several ways to reach your destination, including public transport. Looking to make airport transfers hassle-free? Check out Mountain Drop Offs—they provide door-to-door service in their comfy and spacious shuttles. Use the code 57HCHX to get a 5% discount!
You will meet your guide at around 6pm on Day 1 at your hotel in Chamonix.
Activity, injury, and mountain rescue insurance is mandatory, while travel insurance is highly recommended. To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible, simply choose Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner!
Redpoint tailors their protection packages for adventure travel, offering a comprehensive travel program, even in remote locations. Trip cancellation, natural disasters, pandemic coverage, medical evacuation, primary medical expenses—regardless of the travel interruption that may happen, Redpoint will have you covered.
Once your booking is confirmed and your trip is paid in full, you will be offered to purchase Redpoint’s protection. If you need any help or require more information, let us know and we will be happy to help!
Deposits
Secure your spot with a 30% deposit upon booking! The remaining 70% of the trip price must be paid 90 days prior to departure at the latest. If booking within 90 days of departure, the full amount is required at the time of booking.
Cancellations
Booking fees are non-refundable after a 48-hour grace period. During checkout, however, you can choose one of 57hours’ flexibility options—Basic, Flexible, or Super Flexible. Depending on which one you choose, a different cancellation policy will apply to your booking.
Basic
Flexible
Super Flexible
Finished! It was a long term goal and aspiration to do it, so achieving it was such a positive emotion. Every day was amazing in its own way, with all of them memorable. I loved seeing Champex Lac as this seems iconic when watching the UTMB races.