Mountain Adventure Holidays
Runners going up to Flégère from Argentière
The Marathon du Mont Blanc has officially kicked off the trail running season here in the Chamonix valley. Last weekend, runners faced intense courses of 23 km, 45 km, and the formidable 90 km, battling scorching temperatures that soared above 35 degrees. It was a true test of grit, determination, and resilience.
While the heat was far from ideal - my personal preference leans toward cooler conditions around 14 degrees with a gentle breeze - this race served as a powerful reminder of the strength and spirit inherent to trail running. Athletes dug deep, pushing past physical and mental barriers, each step driven by pure determination. Yet, perhaps the true heroes are the mere mortals, those who remain out on the course for double the time or longer, battling their limits long after the faster runners have crossed the finish line.
Witnessing the event from the sidelines, the sense of community was tangible. Volunteers, supporters, and fellow runners stepped up without hesitation, offering ice, soaking hats in river water, and cheering tirelessly. At one challenging ski slope, I joined runners, encouraging them up the steep incline. Cheering in trail running means sharing strength, lifting spirits, and helping one another through challenging moments.
As we scan ahead, the Chamonix valley and wider Alps are buzzing with activity all summer long. Beyond UTMB, a packed calendar of trail races keeps runners flocking here: Trail du tour des Fiz, Montee du Nid d'Aigle, Argentrail and many other races through July and August . The trails are alive, runners dailing in nutrition and altitude acclimation, lacing up on local single-track, and iconic panoramic routes. This collective energy fills the valley: people here not just racing, but preparing, sharing tips, and building each other up. For many, end of summer brings another push - UTMB itself, or longer-distance ambitions across Europe as summer training shifts toward those bigger goals.
Taking a flower powered break on the trails around Le Tour
If you're inspired to experience the trails, now is a perfect time. Our guided trail running holidays cater to every runner's level, helping you build confidence, hone your skills, and fully immerse yourself in this vibrant, supportive community. If you are just visiting Chamonx, and looking for varied routes, check out this excellent guide to trail running in Chamonix, featuring 10 routes for all levels.
Explore our upcoming trips and make this the season you discover what trail running in the Alps is all about.
Keep up to date with Tracks and Trails through our newsletter, click here to sign up. For more information about our adventure holidays, either bespoke or Scheduled Departures, speak to one of our expert team by calling +44 1663 434468 or email info@tracks-and-trails.
In winter, we offer snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, while in summer we would encourage you to join us for hiking, and trail running.
