UTMB Mont-Blanc: The World's Premier Ultra-Trail
UTMB Mont-Blanc is the most prestigious ultra-trail race in the world — a week-long festival of mountain running based in Chamonix, France, culminating in the flagship ~171 km UTMB race around the Mont Blanc massif through France, Italy and Switzerland.
The event grew from a single race in 2003 into a multi-distance festival (UTMB, CCC, TDS, OCC and shorter races) and now anchors the global UTMB World Series of qualifying races.
Date verification: Dates for the next edition have not yet been officially announced. UTMB Mont-Blanc is traditionally held in late August — check the official website for confirmed dates.
Distance categories: UTMB (~171 km, 10,000 m+) · CCC (~100 km) · TDS (~145 km) · OCC (~55 km) · YDS (~20 km)
Elevation gain: UTMB: ~10,000 m+
Entry: Entry via UTMB Index qualification and a lottery/ballot system. Registration opens months ahead. See the official website for the current qualification and entry rules.
The Races
The flagship UTMB (~171 km, ~10,000 m of ascent) follows much of the Tour du Mont Blanc trekking route, starting and finishing in Chamonix. The CCC (~100 km) starts in Courmayeur, Italy. The TDS (~145 km) and OCC (~55 km) complete the main ultra distances, with shorter races for newer runners.
Cut-off times are generous enough to allow a mix of running and fast hiking, but the distance, altitude and weather make every distance a serious mountain undertaking.
Qualification and Entry
Entry requires a valid UTMB Index (earned via UTMB World Series qualifying races) and selection through a lottery/ballot. Demand far exceeds places. Registration opens months ahead of race week.
See the official UTMB Mont-Blanc website for the current qualification thresholds, lottery rules and entry fees, which change year to year.
Frequently asked questions
- How far is the UTMB race? The flagship UTMB is approximately 171 km with around 10,000 m of ascent, following much of the Tour du Mont Blanc route. The festival also includes the CCC (~100 km), TDS (~145 km) and OCC (~55 km).
- How do I qualify for UTMB? You need a valid UTMB Index earned via UTMB World Series qualifying races, plus selection through a lottery/ballot. See the official website for current thresholds and rules.
- When is UTMB Mont-Blanc? UTMB Mont-Blanc is traditionally held in late August. Dates for the next edition have not yet been officially announced — check the official website for confirmed dates.
- Do I need support crews for UTMB? The races have aid stations and drop-bag logistics, but many runners use support crews at accessible points. Check the official race manual for the current support and drop-bag rules.
Marathon des Sables — The other great ultra with a Morocco connection — a stage race in the Moroccan Sahara.