Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc

The Queen of Ultra Trails

UTMB start in Chamonix — The start of the UTMB in Chamonix: thousands of athletes, excited and determined, throw themselves into one of the toughest and most iconic races in the world of trail running.

What is UTMB?

The Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc is one of the toughest trail running races in the world. Starting in Chamonix, it crosses three countries for 171 km and over 10,000 meters of elevation gain, challenging athletes on the mountains surrounding Mont Blanc.

History and origins

2003: The first edition of the UTMB takes place: 700 runners set off from Chamonix for an adventure around Mont Blanc. Only half manage to finish it.
2006: The CCC, a “short” race from Courmayeur to Chamonix (100 km), is introduced and international interest in trail running grows.
2010: The event attracts over 5,000 participants from all over the world. It is live-streamed and covered by international sports media.
2013: Xavier Thévenard entered the legend by becoming the first athlete to win the UTMB, CCC and TDS, completing the so-called “triple crown”.
2017: The duel between Kilian Jornet and François D’Haene becomes one of the most iconic moments in the history of ultra trail. D’Haene wins with an extraordinary time.
2019: Courtney Dauwalter triumphs on her UTMB debut, demonstrating power, consistency and extraordinary mental resistance.
2021: After the stop due to the pandemic, the UTMB returns with great enthusiasm. Health safety measures do not stop the passion of the athletes.
2022: The UTMB joins the UTMB World Series circuit, becoming the finale of a global trail running championship sponsored by Ironman Group.
2023: Courtney Dauwalter wins again, setting a new women's record. Her feat becomes a symbol of resilience and athletic power.
2024: With over 100 nations represented, the UTMB confirms its position as the world reference event for long distance trail running.

"I never thought it would become the biggest race in the world." – Dawa Sherpa. UTMB Champion- 2003

To learn more, visit the UTMB official page.